This organisation is extending its reach to build one of the country\u2019s first-ever fully-inclusive early childhood campuses which will include a mainstream early childhood development (ECD) centre, a specialised school for disabled young people<\/strong>, a therapy and consulting space and a multi-purpose community area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe inclusion of persons with disabilities in mainstream society promotes equality and restores dignity and independence, and above all, improves their well-being.\u201d Says co-founder Ali Corbett<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cTo achieve this for children in Mfuleni and surrounding areas, phase two of the campus project includes the building of a mainstream ECD for 180 plus children and inclusive spaces for the community as well as an observation classroom for training teachers,\u201d Corbett says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The campus will include a specialised school, Lonwabo Special Care Day Centre, which has been run by principal Thandeka Mafila since 2008. Mafila started her centre with just a few children in a room at the back of her house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThis campus will empower disabled children to meet, interact and play with other children. Some children from Lonwabo will also be able to move to the mainstream ECD after receiving the care and support they need from Thandeka and her team,\u201d Corbett adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How you can make a difference<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Every rand donated online goes directly to our programmes to educate more children, support teachers, fieldworkers and build new schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are various options to sponsor specific rooms<\/a> <\/strong>or zones<\/a> <\/strong>\u2013 like books for a book corner, art supplies, musical toys or educational games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To learn more and donate, visit\u00a0StartingChance.org.za<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/dev.disabilityconnectexpo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/campaigns.002-1170x694.jpeg\")
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