While assistive technologies are an important resource for PWDs to perform their daily life functions, they are often not readily available, are too expensive, or are not personalized enough to address specific disability needs. As a result, in many situations, PWDs, their family members, or caretakers develop more affordable, in-house or locally made inventions or adaptations. In order to identify and share such solutions, in June, USAID’s Advancing Medical Care and Rehabilitation Education project launched a national contest called 'Homemade with Heart' in which professionals and non-professionals participate. During the virtual awards ceremony on September 15, from the 30 applications that were received, three winners were selected in the professional rehabilitation category, three in the non-rehabilitation category, and one through online popularity votes. Winning creations included an elastic wallet, a supportive broom, and a one-hand nail clipper.

So What? Apart from improving PWDs’ access to affordable assistive technologies, the contest also increased community awareness that through innovation and ingenuity, PWDs can be better integrated into society and lead more independent lives.