There are two industrial units in the compound of the Khondwa Leprosy Hospital in Pune. These were established thirty years ago to provide employment for leprosy-affected people. One makes bandages whilst the Box Unit employs 43 people - all of whom are physically handicapped in some way or another. These men work with joy to make wooden boxes for packing TELCO automotive parts. In October, 2006, the men had not been paid for 8 months due to mismanagement, which only added to the shame and stigma of their affliction. SPAN Trust was able to provide long-term management assistance, as well as short-term finance. Work started again at the unit in December, 2006, but much prayer is needed for it to become financially strong. We believe God wants to transform the entire atmosphere of the unit - spiritually as well as materially.
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After TELCO's price increase in June, their level of orders was low so July, August and September were bad months. Thankfully, October came close to our 'minimum' target of 5000 cft. The challenge is to get the leprosy-affected workers pulling their weight and working effectively. On 6th November, Mr Prakash Patil, the chairman of a nearby machine shop for leprosy-affected people, visited the Box Factory. He gave a plea to the workers to work in a more disciplined way. He also assured them of his ongoing commitment to help them - if they wanted to be helped. Because Mr Prakash is also leprosy-affected, his appeal and encouragement carried extra weight.
