On 27 May 2010, 10 deserving members of the QuadPara Association of Mthatha (QAM) received brand new wheelchairs and cushions. This initiative was facilitated by the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA) and was funded by PPC. PPC has been a loyal supporter of several of the Association’s projects and is very proud to be delivering mobility to people who have been disadvantaged.

Selby Mxoli, QASA’s Outreach Officer in the Mthatha area, has been delivering counselling services to the communities there. “Appropriate wheelchairs are essential for the well-being of our people,” says Mxoli. “This gives them a chance to circulate, socialise and look for opportunities within the community.” His post is funded by the AngloGold Ashanti Group, and his work on the ground has allowed deserving recipients of new wheelchairs to be identified.

QASA is committed to the development of people with disabilities in rural areas and this handover of wheelchairs is one of many projects which demonstrate QASA's ability to deliver. “Most of our members come from extremely disadvantaged areas, where poverty is rife and opportunities are few,” says Ari Seirlis, National Director of QASA. “Mobility is essential for quadriplegics and paraplegics, and correct seating is important for their health and well-being. Now we can focus on skills development and developing the capacity of these people in order to give them the opportunity to find decent work.”

QASA is a leading disability agency and the delivery of mobility equipment and assistive devices for members is one of the key projects of the Association. Skills development and education are also high on the agenda, with all members having the opportunity for self-development through the Association.

A new helpline, 0860ROLLING, has recently been launched offering information on demand to people with mobility impairments..