We were given the opportunity to spend time in Bloemfontein at the Free State APD. This was the location we were originally planning on staying, but we were unable to find accommodations for the entire length of time. This is a provincial APD like the Chatsworth APD we visited in KZN. People involved with the NCPPDSA have said that the Free State APD is the most advanced and their initiatives can definitely be a model for the other APDs. Each province has their own challenges and conditions that they face based on the demographics of the population and the infrastructure of the province. These factors may limit the transferability of the programs, but the Free State has overcome many challenges of its own and battles with others everyday.
We arrived Friday and had an overview of the NPO and their projects. They have a Transport division where they transport persons with disabilities around Bloemfontein and also to other locations in the Free State. They charge a minimal fee for their services. Transportation is a major issue everywhere in South Africa and is a huge issue for persons with disabilities. South Africa is very spread out and the public transportation system is very limited. Many people use mini-buses. These buses will either not stop for persons with disabilities or will charge them double fare for their wheelchair. People who live off of the disability grant from the state barely have enough to live on and can not afford cars. For people with physical disabilities it is very difficult to have transport to a job, so it is a vicious cycle that contributes to the unemployment of persons with disabilities. Access is another department the APD is making progress on. They do Access audits for the tourism and hospitality industry including accessibility for employees.
