Photo: Handicap International
The Special Programs to Address the Needs of Survivors (SPANS) portfolio works to reduce risks to vulnerable populations, and to reinforce the capacities of communities, local nongovernmental organizations (NGO), and governments to provide services and protection for vulnerable groups. Programs help vulnerable populations gain access to opportunities that support their full participation in society.
SPANS comprises five Congressionally directed programs:
- Displaced Children and Orphans Fund provides care, support, and protection for vulnerable children.
- Leahy War Victims Fund addresses the needs of civilian victims of conflict by expanding access to affordable and appropriate prosthetic/orthotic services.
- Victims of Torture Program enables people and communities affected by torture to resume
their roles within family and community.
- Wheelchair Program supports the production,
provision, and distribution of wheelchairs.
- Disability Program calls
for the inclusion of people with disabilities and those working
on their behalf in activities that extend from the design and implementation
of USAID programming to advocacy for and outreach to people with
disabilities.
Each provides a dedicated source of financial and technical assistance for projects and activities in their respective programming areas.
SPANS has been at the fore in developing innovative, state-of-the-art programming for children affected by war, in setting orthopedic and rehabilitation standards in developing countries, and in improving treatment and healing options for survivors of torture. It has also lead worldwide policy change on barrier-free accessibility and inclusion of people with disabilities in family and community.
Each fund has its own purpose and strategy, but they share a focus on providing services to poor and vulnerable people and an emphasis on community. SPANS collectively conducts programs in more than seventy (70) countries around the world.
