As of July 1, 2010, there are 181136 disabled people in Armenia, with 115278 being under 18.
"Disabled people are neglected in Armenia. Wherever they go, they receive a negative answer. No one but their parents seems to care for them," says Chairwoman of "Mariam" NGO Nvard Mirzoyan.
Over 555 disabled children are registered in Mariam and Zeitun NGOs.
The NGOs have applied to state bodies and businessmen requesting an area but to no avail.
"They say "What is the use of keeping these children; send them to orphanages," says Chairwoman of Zeitun NGO Zina Asatryan.
"Disabled people receive a pension of AMD 8000 -11 200 depending on the group. But they cannot even buy medicine with the money," said Mrs. Zina.
"I have always supported the authorities thinking that they implement right policy and people need not criticize them. But now I understand that I have been wrong," she said.
