The concept of setting up Family Welfare Centres within the province of Punjab was led by a need for better Planned Parenthood.

In 1985, APWA was approached by the Non Governmental Coordinating Council (NGOCC) with a request to open 6 centres in the rural areas of Punjab. This was specifically for the purpose of providing population control advice devices for women and general healthcare for mother and child. The Family Welfare clinics served women patients who were gradually induced to adopt family planning.

In 1999, APWA Executive Members had to take immediate action when outside support discontinued. After consultation with the Lady Health Visitors (LHV), they introduced measures that made the clinics semi-autonomous. APWA continued to contribute certain costs while the Lady Health Visitors (LHV) recovered other expenses through the ‘parchi’ fee. Despite limited resources, APWA continues to run the centres whilst establishing others in various cities and towns around the province of Punjab.

Presently, APWA Punjab is sustaining 14 Health Centres where Lady Health Visitors run on single or double shifts daily. LHVs are trained health practitioners who receive regular instruction under Green Star and DTI programs. During monthly visits to APWA Headquarters, the LHV also attend health awareness sessions with senior surgeons and physicians. The Lady Health Supervisor meticulously checks their records and local lady motivators, who play a vital role in making the community more health conscious, support them.

Over a period of time, the statistics clearly show that there has been a change in the mindset at the grassroots level. Local communties have become more health conscious and now understand that it is better to have fewer children and provide them with a better quality of life.

APWA Health Centres in Punjab

APWA FAMILY WELFARE CENTRES BENEFICIARIES 2016-2017