A state-run university in Central Java province has honored a 34-year-old visually impaired woman for helping other disabled people abandoned by their families.

The University of Diponegoro (UNDIP) in the provincial capital Semarang on Saturday bestowed its highest honor on Priskilla Smith Jully, who founded the School of Life Foundation in 2005.

“Priskilla was chosen as the winner of the 2012 UNDIP Award because of her dedication and commitment in restoring the dignity of ‘abandoned’ people or those who are neglected by their families,” Antara news agency quoted Sudharto P. Hadi, the university’s rector, as saying.

The award is given to individuals or groups who make significant contributions to society, the environment or development, he added.

Priskilla said the award, a medal, certificate and a 12 million rupiah (about US$1,265) cash prize, will encourage her to serve more people.

“I want to give hope to people ignored by their families,” she told ucanews.com.

Her foundation, which has 15 staff members, takes care of around 100 people, mostly suffering from psychological or physical problems such as depression and autism.

About 70 patients are residents at the foundation, the rest come on a daily basis for treatment.

She said the main problem the foundation faces is running costs.

"We need about 80 million rupiah each month. Unfortunately, local authorities do not provide any financial help," she said.

“We raise money on our own, selling second-hand goods and daily necessities. We get donations by singing in churches."

She hopes to buy a place since the foundation is currently renting the building it is in.

Related Reports:

Awards honor midwife and school leader

Disabled children ‘need attention’