Celebrating the Eradication of Crusted Scabies in First Nations Communities with One Disease

At the Coopers Foundation, our mission has always been to support transformative initiatives that bring about significant, positive change. We are thrilled to celebrate the monumental achievements of beneficiary One Disease – a charity that exemplifies the power of dedication and innovative public health intervention.

One Disease has announced the successful eradication of crusted scabies in First Nations communities across Australia.

The Journey Begins

Crusted scabies, a severe and highly contagious form of scabies, has long plagued many remote Indigenous communities. Its impacts extend beyond physical health, contributing to social stigma and broader community health challenges. Recognising the urgent need for action, the Coopers Foundation provided two grants to One Disease – first in 2017, and again in 2021.

From the outset, One Disease impressed us with its community-centric approach. The strategy was not merely about treating a disease but also about empowering communities, building trust, and fostering sustainable health practices. One Disease embarked on a comprehensive campaign that combined medical intervention, education, and capacity-building within the affected communities.

Strategic Funding for Lasting Impact

Our support played a critical role at two key milestones in One Disease’s mission. In 2017, we provided a $29,300 grant during a period when an anonymous donor had agreed to match funding, doubling the impact of our contribution. This initial funding was crucial for launching widespread screening and treatment programs, raising awareness, and building the necessary infrastructure within the communities.

By 2021, One Disease had made significant strides but recognised the need to embed the learnings and practices within the community to ensure the disease didn’t resurface. At this pivotal moment, we provided a second grant of $15,000. This funding was instrumental in enabling One Disease to implement sustainable measures, such as training local healthcare providers and reinforcing community education. This second phase focused on creating a robust, self-sustaining health system within Indigenous communities.

A Holistic Approach to Health

One Disease’s model emphasised a holistic approach. Their team worked closely with local health workers and community leaders, ensuring that interventions were culturally sensitive and community-driven. They conducted widespread screening and treatment programs and implemented robust follow-up procedures to prevent reinfection.

Education played a crucial role in their strategy. By raising awareness about crusted scabies, its transmission, and treatment, One Disease empowered individuals to take control of their health. This knowledge sharing helped reduce the stigma associated with the condition, encouraging more people to seek treatment early.

Overcoming Challenges

The journey was not without its challenges. Remote locations, logistical hurdles, and the need for consistent community engagement required perseverance and adaptability. However, the unwavering dedication of One Disease’s team, coupled with the resilience of the communities, led to steady progress. Our Foundation’s support provided some of the resources needed to navigate these challenges, ensuring the initiative remained on course.

A Historic Achievement

Today, we celebrate the outcomes of this hard work. The successful eradication of crusted scabies in these communities is not just a medical victory, it is a testament to what can be achieved when organisations and communities unite with a common purpose. It is a triumph of compassion, innovation, and collaboration.

This achievement has far-reaching implications. Improved health outcomes in these First Nations communities mean better quality of life, reduced healthcare costs, and a stronger foundation for addressing other health issues. The model developed through this initiative serves as a blueprint for tackling similar health challenges in other communities and parts of the nation.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to One Disease, the dedicated healthcare workers, and the resilient communities who made this achievement possible. This is a victory for us all - a shining example of what can be accomplished when we work together for a common cause.

Together, we have not only eradicated a disease but also sown the seeds of hope and health for future generations.