Enabling Mexico’s disabled through ‘Pina Palmera’

Americas Now

Oaxaca, Mexico.

According to The World Bank and Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), over 50 million people in Latin America have disabilities. For those in poverty, the result is often limited care and social exclusion. This week’s Game Changer on “Americas Now” has championed the rights of the disabled in Mexico. She’s helping them to live independently and become active in society.

Disability is a sensitive topic in Mexico. Lack of infrastructure and government programs make everyday life a challenge — especially in rural and indigenous communities.

The organization “Piña Palmera” has become a pioneer for the rights of people with disabilities. For the last 30 years it has offered support, education, and therapy for disabled people of all ages in the Mexican state of Oaxaca.

Flavia Anau is the heart of the organization and works to help recipients attain a new and self-sufficient life. “Pina Palmera” also runs an environmental program which teaches recycling and organic farming – both relatively unknown topics in Mexico.

Check out the “Americas Now” interview this week with Game Changer Flavia.