All children, including disabled children, have the right to play, learn, be included and reach their full potential. Uhambo's Ndinogona "I Can" Program is providing special communication aids and activities to 100 children with disabilities at the Siyabonga Care Village in rural Western Cape. They will be given a chance to play, learn and reach developmental goals never thought possible. In April Uhambo reached its goal for GlobalGiving's Open Challenge and is now expanding the project.
The families of over 100 children with disabilities in the disadvantaged Vrendenburg area cannot afford care or services. They rely on the Siyabonga Care Village, a registered day care center for disabled children. Without access to such services, children with disabilities face a life of seclusion and isolation. Stimulation programs create an opportunity for advancement, empowerment and inclusion. Many parents in rural areas never imagined these possibilities for their children!
Uhambo, a specialist in the disability sector, is providing Siyabonga with the Ndinogona "I Can" Stimulation Program to improve the quality of life of disadvantaged children with disabilities by delivering: training in speech, art and drama therapy; the Stimulation Kit and training; support groups to parents; educating the community about disabilities and creating opportunities for social inclusion. We have expanded the project to include wheelchairs cushions and additional support groups.
Every child has the right to play and learn. 100 children with disabilities will have access to tools to promote their development, allowing them to become more independent, be included in society and experience fun. Past recipients have realized the following benefits: Charlie, who has never spoken a word, managed to name all the primary colors when we worked with the kit; Sivuyile's family didn't know how to play with him. With these tools, he is more independent and not as bored!
