A strengthened partnership between the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is continuing to expand mobility and inclusion for persons with disabilities across Saint Lucia.
Through a recent joint initiative, the two organizations conducted specialized wheelchair fittings and technical repairs, ensuring that recipients received mobility equipment tailored to their individual needs. Organizers say proper fitting and maintenance are critical to long-term comfort, safety and independence, allowing users to navigate daily life with greater confidence and autonomy.
President of the NCPD, Merphilus James, said the initiative reflects the council’s broader vision of empowerment and equal participation for persons with disabilities. He emphasized that the work goes beyond charitable assistance and is rooted in respect for human rights and dignity. “This mission has been key, very key in the work that we do,” James said. “Not in painting people with disabilities merely as objects of charity, sitting on the sidelines waiting for support, but as people enshrined with all human rights and dignity, and that once we are given the right resources, the right support and technology, we can not only participate, but we can lead in this society.”
James also highlighted the significant impact of the long-standing partnership, noting that since 2019, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has assisted in the distribution of approximately 613 new wheelchairs, along with an additional 550 walkers, canes and other mobility aids. In total, more than 1,100 mobility devices have been provided to persons in need across the island.
Speaking on behalf of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sister Caren Kennedy said the outreach is guided by core Christian values of service, love and compassion. “We are gathered here to celebrate love and kindness,” she said, adding that caring for others is central to the Christian faith. “In the distribution of the wheelchairs, we remember the words of Jesus as he spoke to his disciples,” Kennedy noted. Quoting scripture, she said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, the least you have done to one of your brethren, you have done it for me.
And as Christians, we are called to serve with love and compassion.”
Organizers say the initiative extends beyond improving physical mobility, reinforcing a shared commitment to dignity, inclusion and community support. The partnership, they add, continues to transform lives while promoting greater participation and independence for persons with disabilities throughout Saint Lucia.
