Project duration: 2023-2026
The FAITH + Type 1 Diabetes Program, a collaborative initiative by the Western Uganda FBO Network (WUFBON) and the Lions Club of Kyenjojo, aims to improve the health and well-being of individuals living with Type 1 diabetes in Western Uganda. By leveraging the influence and reach of faith-based organizations, the program provides comprehensive diabetes care, education, and support to affected communities.
Overview
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition requiring ongoing medical care and education. In Western Uganda, access to diabetes care is limited, and there is a significant need for community-based support systems. Faith-based organizations (FBOs) are uniquely positioned to address this gap due to their deep-rooted presence and trust within communities.
Objectives
- Increase Awareness: Educate communities about Type 1 diabetes, its symptoms, and management.
- Improve Access to Care: Provide regular medical check-ups, insulin, and other necessary supplies.
- Support and Counseling: Offer psychological and spiritual support to individuals and families affected by diabetes.
- Capacity Building: Train FBO leaders and volunteers to deliver diabetes education and support services.
Key Areas of Collaboration with Lions Club Kyenjojo
Health Camps and Screenings
- Joint Health Camps: Together, we organize health camps that provide free medical check-ups, diabetes screenings, and other essential health services to the community.
- Awareness Campaigns: We conduct awareness campaigns to educate the public about diabetes management, prevention, and the importance of regular health check-ups.
Capacity Building
- Training Programs: We collaborate to train community health workers and volunteers, focusing on diabetes care, first aid, and other critical health topics.
- Resource Sharing: The Lions Club provides medical supplies and resources, while the FBO Network offers its extensive community reach and trust to ensure effective program delivery.
Community Support and Counseling
- Support Groups: We establish support groups for individuals and families affected by diabetes, offering psychological and spiritual support through faith-based counseling.
- Peer Education: Trained volunteers from both organizations engage in peer education, sharing knowledge and experiences to help others manage their health better.
Advocacy and Policy Influence
- Joint Advocacy Efforts: Our partnership advocates for better health policies and increased government support for diabetes care and other health services in the region.
- Community Mobilization: We mobilize community members to participate in health initiatives and advocate for their health rights.
Influence on Mainstreaming Type 1 Diabetes
WUFBON has significantly impacted the mainstreaming of Type 1 diabetes care across 80 NGO and faith-based facilities in the region. Here’s how:
Advocacy and Awareness
- Educational Campaigns: Conducted extensive educational campaigns to raise awareness about Type 1 diabetes among community leaders, healthcare providers, and the general public.
- Faith Leader Engagement: Engaged faith leaders to disseminate information about diabetes care within their congregations, reducing stigma and encouraging community support.
Capacity Building
- Training Programs: Organized training sessions for healthcare workers in NGO and faith-based facilities, focusing on the latest diabetes care practices.
- Resource Provision: Facilitated the provision of essential medical supplies, such as insulin and glucose meters, to these facilities.
Collaborative Efforts
- Partnerships with Health Organizations: Partnered with local and international health organizations to enhance the capacity of faith-based facilities.
- Community Health Programs: Expanded reach and impact through joint health programs with organizations like the Lions Club of Kyenjojo.
Monitoring and Evaluation
- Regular Assessments: Conducted regular assessments to monitor the effectiveness of diabetes care programs.
- Feedback Mechanisms: Established feedback mechanisms to gather input from patients and healthcare providers, refining and enhancing services continuously.
By integrating these strategies, the FAITH + Type 1 Diabetes Program has successfully mainstreamed Type 1 diabetes care across numerous NGO and faith-based facilities, significantly improving health outcomes for individuals living with diabetes in Western Uganda.
