An overview of the project launching ceremony. VNA/VNS Photo

BÌNH PHƯỚC – A project on improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in areas heavily sprayed with Agent Orange was launched in the southern province of Bình Phước on June 5, with the support of the National Action Centre for Toxic Chemicals and Environmental Treatment (NACCET), the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Catholic Relief Services (CRS).

Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Mai Xuân Tuấn said that Bình Phước is currently home to 12,716 PWDs, of whom 522, or 4.1 per cent, are AO victims.

The project, which will be carried out in 11 localities of Bình Phước from June 2024 to November 2026, with a total fund of over US$3.8 million, focuses on expanding medical support and rehabilitation services and social services, improving the health and quality of life of PWDs, increasing social integration support for them; and enhancing the capacity to manage and implement support activities at all levels.

During the implementation period, it is expected that about 3,160 PWDs will receive rehabilitation intervention; 3,340 will receive care services; 192 medical workers will be trained to improve their professional capacity; and 3,748 health workers, family members and community caregivers will be trained/instructed to care for PWDs, Tuan added.

CRS Chief Representative in Việt Nam Bùi Quỳnh Nga said that CRS and its partners are committed to working closely with agencies, departments, and sectors in Bình Phước province to ensure the success of the project.

In the next three years, the project will focus on supporting children with disabilities by assisting early detection and early intervention to improve the quality of life of them, she added. VNS