Local NPO hosts awareness on autism

The NPO Keakgona Kefentse held an Autism Awareness event at the end of April to mark the end of Autism Awareness Month.

Founder Lindiwe Ndlovu said that since the founding of the NPO, it has established a respite care centre to help parents awaiting placement of their children in schools.

The NPO aims to empower, educate, and provide support and information about autism to struggling parents, especially about school placements.

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The centre ensures children are taken to occupational therapists and clinics when needed by working with various government departments.

Lindiwe thanked the sponsors for making the day possible.

“The community and businesses who pledged their support made the day possible,” she said.

Belinda Sikwane of Autism SA said that despite events such as Keakgona Kefentse’s, much stigmatisation still surrounds autism.

“No matter how hard we try, it is scary how much misunderstanding surrounds autism.”

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She said some parents with children diagnosed with autism do not know how to handle their children.

Lindiwe said with a greater need for autism support, the centre calls on donations from the community.

Items needed include sponge mattresses, educational toys, nappies, non-perishable foods and other donations.
For more information, call Lindiwe on 081 741 0088.