The UAE government gave a woman with walking and speech disability in Lebanon a new flat that is more accessible for her following her appeal for help on television.
The Local Organising Committee of Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi bought a new flat for 43-year old Rita Hajjar and her 74-year old father, who like his daughter, also struggles to walk and speak due to a car accident, reported The National.
Hajjar appeared on television to appeal for help for having a hard time maneuvering in her flat due to her disability. On top of that, Hajjar was also facing eviction notice for her inability to pay her rent.
After the moving televised story, Hajjar was informed about the help from the UAE and was assisted by the UAE ambassador to Lebanon Hamad Al Shamsi in her move to her new home in Beirut.
“The response of Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 to help Rita Hajjar is in line with the UAE’s message of tolerance”, said Al Shamsi.
Hajjar’s new flat allows her to move around with ease. The flat’s building also has an elevator which will allow her to go outdoors easier as her old flat required her to be carried down the stairs for her to go outdoors.
A friend also pledged to pay for a housemaid that would accompany Hajjar and her father for two years, according to the report.
Aside from the new flat, Hajjar was also invited to watch the Special Olympic World Games in Abu Dhabi in March for free.
“It is like I am living in a dream,” said Hajjar.
