Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a condition that affects muscle control and movement. It is usually caused by an injury to the brain before, during or after birth (Scope, 2014). It is one of the most prevalent physical disabilities in childhood ‐ globally almost 17 million people have CP. Although no scientific research has been done on the prevalence of CP in Sri Lanka, research carried out globally into the prevalence of CP (Gladstone, 2010) suggests that the prevalence in Sri Lanka may be at least 0.2%. This means that there are likely to be more than 40,000 persons in Sri Lanka with this condition (Sunday Times, 2011).

Understanding this need for further research into CP in Sri Lanka, there is also a clear need to boost awareness and understanding of CP, as well as the medical capacity and funding needed to treat the condition. There are, as yet, no specialized surgeries like SEMLARASS, OSSCS in Sri Lanka to prevent or correct deformities for those with CP and there are very few parents or teachers who are trained in taking proper care of children with CP.

Moreover, Sri Lankan census data underlines the extent to which families with disabled children need financial help; nearly three‐quarters of disabled Sri Lankans are dependent on their families for support to survive (ESCAT 2014). This highlights the need for vocational training for young people and adults with CP and disabilities who dream of a life in which they are financially independent.

Cerebral Palsy permanently affects body movement and muscle coordination, thus wheelchairs remain an important mode of movement for the affected individuals, providing much needed freedom. Children affected by Cerebral Palsy usually have limited mobility or is completely bed ridden which often leads to various health complications including muscle contractures. Children who do not have wheelchairs find it difficult to live a fulfilling life as they cannot even leave their homes, so they struggle to make friends and find it difficult to fit into a community. This project was initiated to enable the children with Cerebral Palsy to get out of their house bound situation and to encourage their maximal participation in society.

The special wheelchair donation camps for children with Cerebral Palsy will provide an opportunity for parents to seek assistance if they have a child with CP or if they suspect that their child may be affected by the disorder.