The desire to take care of those forgotten and marginalized people living with leprosy gave birth to the formation of the Universal Point of Hope Foundation. It was to be a facility that will offer treatment but, most importantly, dignity through medical, social, and vocational resources.
We began, really, on a small scale, thinking first of local communities, but soon expanded into an international movement through which we confront both medical and social complications of this disease. We continue to adhere to our vision today and work unceasingly for a world in which the disease called leprosy does not define either the dignity or the possibilities open for any individual.
The UNIVERSAL POINT OF HOPE FOUNDATION is a steadfast not-for-profit dedicated to the challenges of leprosy disease and the stigma surrounding it. We are passionate about providing holistic care, advocacy, and supporting people affected by this disease, creating awareness, and empowering marginalized communities, hence giving them a life with dignity, acceptance, and access to necessary medical facilities.
Besides the medical aspect—our concern is the socio-economic problems of the patients and their families. In cooperation with health professionals, government agencies, and other agencies of the humanitarian sector, we aim to bring methods of subsistence and hope to people suffering from leprosy.
The eradication of the stigma of leprosy through healthcare, education, and empowerment until such time as persons affected by leprosy are completely restored to a life with dignity and respect within society.
A world where leprosy no longer causes obstacles in health, social inclusion, and economic participation, where all those affected are empowered to determine their own life with dignity, free from prejudice and marginalization.
To achieve a significant reduction in the incidence of leprosy through education, early diagnosis, and treatment; promote social inclusion and ensure holistic well-being of those affected by the disease
Provide early diagnosis and treatment of the infected people via health facilities and resources.
Educate society about the leprosy malady for its demystification, avoiding transmission of wrong information, and promotion of early diagnoses.
Assist those who suffer from leprosy in getting access to vocational training, psychological counseling as well as social reintegration.
Liaise with policymakers at local and international levels to influence the creation and enforcement of policies that safeguard the rights and dignity of those affected by the disease.
Form close collaborations with healthcare providers, NGOs, and community leaders for maximizing the reach and impact of activities.
The UNIVERSAL POINT OF HOPE FOUNDATION works to bring change into the lives of leprosy patients and their families beyond medical intervention. We envision communities that are inclusive, where the stigma of leprosy has been abolished, and people can live their social and economic lives with dignity.
Our work not only cures the disease of the patients but also restores hope and dignity, enabling that person to go back to contributing positively to society.
We put people at the center of everything we do. Together with our partners and donors, we have the resources and technology to improve the quality of life for the people we serve. We have been coming alongside people affected by Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) like leprosy and are dedicated to supporting people as they overcome disease, disability, and discrimination.