History

Humanity Welfare Organisation Helpline (HWOHL) was conceived in the late 1990’s, during a time when Jammu and Kashmir was severely impacted by Political Instability and Armed Conflict. The turmoil affected the lives of many, including Javed, the founder of HWOHL.

While Javed was pursuing his college education, he became a victim of the conflict when he was shot in an incident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. The bullet passed through his spine, and he was confined to a wheelchair for life. After spending over two years in the hospital and undergoing multiple surgeries, Javed’s doctors gave up hope. They told his mother to wait for a miracle, as the possibility of him ever walking again seemed slim. The transition from independent living to complete dependence on others was a difficult and painful adjustment for Javed. Yet, despite the overwhelming hardships, he refused to give up!

Javed continued his education and, motivated by a desire to make a difference, began offering free classes for the less privileged children in his neighborhood. His courage and determination did not go unnoticed - people started supporting him and joined him in his mission to uplift the lives of others facing similar challenges. What began as a personal struggle soon turned into a larger vision: to improve the lives of persons with disabilities and to promote their rights in society, especially through education.

In 2008, Javed's dream materialized when a school for children with disabilities i.e. Zaiba Aapa Institute of Inclusive Education, initially with just two blind girls was started in a small rented room. Over the time, this school evolved into a Development Center that focuses on the holistic development of Persons with Disabilities. Currently, the school operates in a self-owned, accessible building, providing Education and Rehabilitation Services to Persons with Disabilities across South Kashmir.

In addition to focus on Disability, HWOHL has always been dedicated to the protection of children under all circumstances. Through the operations of Child Helpline - CHILDLINE 1098, we have responded to the needs of 3147 children, many of whom have been linked to long-term rehabilitation services. Our organization conducts awareness programs, workshops, and trainings for children, parents, and other stakeholders on child rights, protection, and mental health. Currently, we are working in 50 villages in the Anantnag and Kulgam districts, empowering children with life skills, child rights education, and mental health support, while also strengthening the parenting skills of families and communities.

Javed's unwavering commitment to social change has been widely recognized. In addition to numerous awards, he was recently honoured with one of India's highest civilian honours, the Padma Shri.