The Government of Japan has decided to extend a grant of $ 89,917 to Our Lady of Peace Centre for the provision of rehabilitation equipment under the scheme titled Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects (GGP).

A grant contract was signed on Tuesday by Japanese Ambassador in Jordan Shimazaki Kaoru and Shawki Baterian, director general of the centre, in the presence of Patriarch Fouad Al Twal and Bishop William Shomali, according to an embassy statement.

This grant assistance aims at improving the living conditions of people with disabilities, especially those in great need, through the provision of new and advanced rehabilitation equipment for the centre, the statement said.

Since its establishment in 2004, the centre has provided free daily services in a loving environment for people with disabilities, regardless of religious, social and financial background, read the statement.

This project will contribute to improving the quality and sustainability of the rehabilitation services at the centre for people with disabilities including refugees.

During the signing ceremony, the ambassador expressed his gratitude to Our Lady of Peace Centre’s contribution to society.

"The pandemic of COVID-19 has caused a wide range of impacts on all aspects of Jordan’s society, which makes the vulnerable people even more vulnerable. Therefore, we believe that the importance of supporting those people in Jordan has become greater than ever. I sincerely hope that this new project will support the services at Our Lady of Peace Centre and further contribute to a better future for the people in need,” the ambassador said.

Under Japanese Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects, Japan has extended more than $10 million for 149 projects to non-governmental organisations, schools, hospitals and local governments in Jordan since 1993.