Families of children with disabilities also need support and guidance, making organisations that provide both forms of care an important community resource.

This is the role Giftid Centre has worked to fulfil in Centurion since it was established in 2006.

Based at Lyttelton Methodist Church on Monument Avenue, the non-profit organisation provides care, education and support for children and young people with physical and mental disabilities and supports their families.

Centre manager Emmanuel Meso said the organisation was established to give children and parents a supportive environment, regardless of background.

“Our mission is to provide a support and education structure for any parent or child faced with single or multiple disabilities, irrespective of race or disability,” he said.

Meso said the organisation’s work extended beyond caring for children, as caregivers also needed emotional support.

Activities develop motor and social skills

Interactive activities help develop children’s physical, social and cognitive abilities.

“These include aerobic exercises, mini gymnastics, ball games and jungle gym activities to improve gross motor skills and balance. Children also use puzzles, sand, drawing and crafts to develop fine motor skills,” he said.

Music, dance and cultural expression also form part of the programme.

“Through group singing, traditional instruments and dance, children are encouraged to express themselves, interact with others and build confidence,” Meso said.

The centre introduces literacy and numeracy through counting, conversational practice in several languages, and games encouraging communication and social interaction.

Meso said the activities allowed children to develop at their own pace and connect.

The child and youth care centre has traditionally accommodated up to 20 children, but currently cares for nine from Centurion.

Despite demand, limited resources remain a challenge.

“The centre does not have its own transport, but works with scholar transport providers in Centurion to assist families who need transport for their children,” Meso said.

Centre seeks permanent premises

Financial sustainability is another concern, as the organisation operates through a self-funding model.

Community involvement has helped support its work. Through initiatives such as the Giftid Centre Fun Walk, organised with schools including Lyttelton Primary School under the Passion Rainbow Fun Walk banner, the organisation promotes inclusion and disability awareness.

The centre aims to challenge stigma around disability by building partnerships and serving as an educational resource for parents.

One of its biggest aspirations is to own its own premises. Currently renting space at the church, Meso said the centre had noticed growing demand for boarding facilities for children and young people with disabilities in Centurion.

He said owning premises would help the organisation respond to this need and expand its support for families.

For now, it relies on individuals, businesses and organisations willing to contribute.

Meso said the public could support Giftid Centre by volunteering, assisting with daily activities, arts and crafts, supervision and holiday programmes.

“Financial contributions and donations towards our educational activities and daily care are also welcomed,” he said.

Those interested in supporting the centre can contact Giftid Centre on 072 997 0567 or email maranatha.bana.centre@outlook.com.

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