Mane Foundation, in collaboration with “Fundjavë Ndryshe” Foundation, has launched an initiative to provide wheelchairs to all individuals with paraplegia and tetraplegia in Albania. As part of the first phase, 260 wheelchairs were distributed in Tirana, with the ultimate goal of distributing a total of 1,000 wheelchairs nationwide.

The public presentation of the project took place at “Asllan Rusi” Sports Hall, where the distribution of wheelchairs for the Tirana area began. This initiative is supported by State Social Service and Para and Tetraplegics Association of Albania. Its aim is to ensure that no person with paraplegia or tetraplegia in Albania is left without a wheelchair. After launching in Tirana, the project will continue with the distribution of 1,000 wheelchairs across the country.

In his welcoming speech, the founder of Mane Foundation, Samir Mane, emphasized that the distribution of wheelchairs to people with paraplegia and tetraplegia is both a foundation commitment and a personal one.

“We have brought 1,000 wheelchairs that will be distributed starting today, but I am sure this is only the first step. I promise that the Mane Foundation will continue its work so that all individuals with paraplegia and tetraplegia in Albania will have a wheelchair and the independence and ease they have been lacking,” said Samir Mane.

Mane, who is also the founder of BALFIN Group, added that this initiative is another effort to ensure a dignified life for all individuals with paraplegia and tetraplegia, particularly those facing economic hardships.

Arbër Hajdari, the Executive Director of “Fundjavë Ndryshe” Foundation, echoed Mane’s statement, saying, “Through this initiative, together with Mane Foundation, we will go door to door, to every corner of Albania, to those who are in need of a wheelchair; to those who have written to us and are eagerly waiting for our help.”

Bajram Tirana, President of Para and Tetraplegics Association of Albania, shared his personal experiences and outlined the specific needs of the individuals he represents. He described the initiative of Mane Foundation and “Fundjavë Ndryshe” as an excellent example of collaboration to assist and support a segment of society that has numerous umeet needs.

At today’s event, 260 individuals with paraplegia and tetraplegia were provided with wheelchairs. For those unable to attend the event, wheelchairs will be delivered to their homes. Volunteers from Mane Foundation and “Fundjavë Ndryshe” Foundation, supported by the staff of State Social Service, will deliver the wheelchairs door to door. This same process will be followed in other regions of Albania.

Since its inception, Mane Foundation has made a tangible difference in the lives of many, constantly working on issues related to education, youth, environmental protection, health and welfare of social groups in need.