A Community Health Center for Karachi

The neighborhood of Kachi Abadi in Karachi is very poor; most of the residents live in slums, with the men doing menial labor and the women primarily working as domestic servants. There are very few educational opportunities, and the average family size is eight people.

Perhaps worst of all, there was very little in even basic health care facilities available to the residents.

To help these people, HDF did an assessment and realized that step one needed to be having some health care services available to the population. HDF decided to open a Community Health Center in Karachi Kachi Abadi.

In addition to providing outpatient services, immunizations for children and natal services for women, HDF looked to expand the role of the Community Health Center to focus on fostering a culture of healthy habits and practices as much as possible in the community.

First, a door-to-door program of preventative care services was introduced. This in turn led to the increase in Health Awareness services through regular seminars and community meetings. Then, as education became more commonplace, the capacity of the community-based health workers was increased.

Still, there is much more to do.

A Mobile Health Unit equipped vehicle would greatly enhance the ability to provide services. As well, a water filtration plant needs to be constructed so that everyone in the community has access to safe drinking water.

Please join HDF in helping make this community healthier.