CHIP International aims to promote autism awareness, provide training, and support underserved communities in West Africa, especially in Senegal and Ghana, to help children with autism and special needs reach their full potential.

Individuals and their families face numerous challenges, including:

• Stigma and Misunderstanding: Autism is often misunderstood or attributed to supernatural causes like witchcraft or curses, leading to social isolation and discrimination.

• Lack of Diagnosis and Early Intervention: There is a severe shortage of qualified specialists (e.g., child psychologists, speech therapists) and diagnostic centers, resulting in delayed or missed diagnoses.

• Limited Access to Education: Mainstream schools are often not equipped to support children with autism, and special education schools are few, under-resourced, and often financially out of reach for most families.

• Financial Strain: The costs associated with therapy, specialized education, and healthcare can place a heavy burden on families, particularly those in low-income settings.

CHIP International supports children with autism in Africa through three main initiatives: 1. **Awareness and Advocacy**: We collaborate with communities, leaders, and governments to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote understanding of autism as a neurological condition. 2. **Training and Capacity Building**: We offer practical training for parents, caregivers, and educators on early intervention techniques that can be used at home and in schools. 3. **Community-Based Support**: We help create support networks and family groups, empowering parents to share knowledge, reduce isolation, and advocate for better resources.