Mossy Foot Project Inc.

The Mossy Foot Project Inc. is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals affected by podoconiosis, also known as "mossy foot," primarily in Ethiopia. The organization is registered as a 501(c)3 nonprofit in the United States and operates as a chartered non-governmental organization (NGO) in Ethiopia under the name Mossy Foot International.

Mission

The mission of the Mossy Foot Project is to offer life-changing resources to those suffering from podoconiosis through medical treatment, prevention, education, vocational training, and emotional support. This holistic approach aims to address both the physical and social impacts of the disease, helping patients to reintegrate into their communities.

History

The Mossy Foot Project was founded in 1997 by Dr. Nathan Barlow, a medical doctor who had served in Ethiopia for over 60 years. Dr. Barlow's dedication to treating and understanding podoconiosis began as early as the 1950s, but his focus on the condition intensified towards the end of his career. Following Dr. Barlow's death in 2004, his legacy continues through his daughter Sharon Daly and grandson Kevin Daly, who currently serve as President and Vice President of the organization, respectively.

Activities and Services

• Medical Treatment: The project provides simple yet effective medical treatment for podoconiosis, which involves cleansing and bandaging affected areas. This treatment is often enough to reduce swelling and prevent further complications[2][3].

• Education and Prevention: Educational programs focus on raising awareness about podoconiosis, its causes, and methods of prevention, primarily in rural Ethiopian communities. Since podoconiosis is caused by prolonged exposure to irritant soil particles, education on proper footwear and hygiene is crucial[2][3].

• Vocational Training: To support the social and economic rehabilitation of patients, the organization offers vocational training in skills such as hairdressing, barbering, carpentry, and bicycle repair. This enables patients to become self-sufficient and contribute to their communities[3].

• Social and Emotional Support: Beyond physical care, the project provides social counseling and emotional support to help patients overcome the stigma associated with the condition. It also involves constructing homes for widows and abandoned women, providing them with livestock like goats and chickens to ensure a sustainable food supply[3].

Operations

The Mossy Foot Project operates through a network of clinics in Ethiopia, with its main headquarters located in Soddo, Wolaitta zone. The organization has expanded to serve rural areas, using mobile teams to reach additional regions as funding allows[1][3]. The clinics are staffed by local healthcare workers and community podoconiosis agents, many of whom are former patients themselves. This approach not only provides employment opportunities but also ensures empathetic care for those affected by the disease[3].

Funding and Partnerships

The organization relies primarily on international donations for its operations in Ethiopia. The Mossy Foot Treatment and Prevention Association (MFTPA) in Ethiopia is one of the key recipients of funding from the Mossy Foot Project, helping to sustain the clinical and community outreach efforts[4].

Impact

The Mossy Foot Project plays a critical role in addressing podoconiosis in Ethiopia, a country where the disease affects an estimated one million individuals, contributing significantly to economic and social burdens[2][4]. By providing accessible treatment and promoting awareness, the project helps to reduce the stigma associated with podoconiosis and supports the integration of patients back into their communities.