Family First is a charitable organisation that is passionate about supporting families who have children with complex medical needs and disabilities in Kumasi, Ghana.
In Ghana, many families who have children with disabilities are not supported in their communities. The stigma attached to poverty and disability can cause families to be outcast from society, leading to a lack of sufficient health care, education and employment opportunities and a poorer quality of life. In desperate cases, families may leave their children in orphanages or prayers camps, where they are often deprived of their basic needs. Family First Ghana is dedicated to eradicate this stigma and support individuals with disabilities to live a meaningful life by guiding families through our 4 stages of support.
1) Intervention – We believe that early intervention is key and aim to ensure each family’s individual needs are met through an individualised care plan. Support may include access to medical care, therapeutic interventions, education, safe and accessible accommodation, specialist equipment and/or nutritional support.
2) Foundation – We believe that a family cannot thrive without a solid foundation of support. We offer emotional support to families and connect families in similar circumstances all over Kumasi so that they can support one another. ​
3) Prevention – We aim to empower families so that they can become independent. We offer education on their children's needs and support the family through medical appointments and therapeutic interventions so they have the necessary skills to help their child to thrive in their own unique way.
4) Education – The stigma of both developmental and medical needs often isolates families in Ghana. We hope to eradicate that stigma by offering training to local healthcare providers, schools and churches. By partnering with leaders in the community, we dream of a Kumasi that strives for inclusivity in every aspect of life. ​