About us
Who is Leprosy Relief?
It all began with an uncle, deeply moved by his niece's work as a nurse treating people affected by Leprosy in India. His initiative, a simple letter to acquaintances seeking support, has sparked a commitment that continues to this day. We have worked tirelessly to support programs to prevent, detect, and treat Leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases that affect the most vulnerable and marginalized populations.
Leprosy Relief is a humanitarian organization; a vital bridge connecting caring donors with health organizations worldwide to help leprosy-affected individuals. Your support is the key to our success.
For more than 60 years, we have been working to provide better access to healthcare for people living in remote parts of the World. We finance the development of long-term solutions such as community health programs, mental health support systems, and social integration initiatives to address marginalized people's physical health, mental health, and social acceptance.
As a member of ILEP, a consortium of international non-governmental organizations, we share a common vision - A World Free from Leprosy. We recognize that this ambitious goal can only be achieved through our collective efforts.
We're on a Mission!
Our unwavering commitment to our mission will continue until the World is free from Leprosy. We are steadfast in our efforts to break down barriers to health, education and social acceptance.
Our Vision
We imagine a World where people no longer have to worry about Leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and can live in dignity - A World free of Leprosy and full of hope.
Our daily work
We value our partners who help us provide programs that strengthen healthcare systems and improve access to resources for marginalized people. Our partners include ILEP members, global health organizations and associations of persons with lived experience of Leprosy.
Together, we provide resources and develop impactful programs that not only help people overcome the effects of disease, disability, and discrimination but also inspire hope and optimism for a future free from extreme poverty. Our programs include:
- Early detection in remote communities to detect Leprosy and other diseases.
- Early diagnosis and treatment to help prevent disabilities.
- Corrective surgeries for severe disabilities.
- Physiotherapy and self-care programs to prevent disease complications
- Community-based mental health programs
- Health education and awareness campaigns to reduce discrimination
- Research and development of new treatments and vaccines
We provide resources for all individuals, regardless of their religious beliefs, age, gender, or socio-economic status.
After gaining experience in a law firm, Bernise joined our team in 1986. She is highly regarded for her keen sense of human relations, her protection of donor privacy, her honesty and her dedication.
Do not hesitate to contact me about your case or for any other questions.
Bernise Gingras
Donor Services Director
A graduate in human genetics from McGill and holder of an MBA in non-profit management, Maryse joined our team in 1981. She has extensive experience in leprosy and philanthropy.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about leprosy, our projects or planned giving.
Maryse Legault
Executive Director