The Overstrand Association for Persons with Disabilities (OAPD) formally took possession of the property the South African Muslim Charitable Trust (SAMCT) bought for the association.
OAPD was registered in 2009 following a survey that identified the critical need for integrated social services for people with disabilities in the area.
For more than a decade they lived as nomads, first in a single room at the Thusong Hall complex, then at Hawston Secondary School during Covid-19, and then to a small church hall.
With the support of the Abagold Development Trust, which provided an ongoing supply of abalone shells, they established a thriving craft-making project. However, beause of limited workspace and no storage space, the situation became desperate.
Then SAMCT changed everything. After buying a large plot, formerly owned by Hermanus Child and Family Services, it was clear that the on-site structures were inadequate for the scope of services OAPD provided.
“A need for additional financial support was identified, bringing on-stream a work centre for adults and a new day-care centre to accommodate children with disabilities,” commented Faried Boltman, SAMCT’s representative at the event.
Three successful day-care projects had been established in Kleinmond, Zwelihle and Mount Pleasant, respectively. “Every child has a right to education, regardless of their circumstances. It is wrong that many children living with multiple disabilities are often excluded from schools or care facilities and remain at home without vital stimulation,” added Boltman.
Social worker and project manager Desiréé Gelderblom said that since moving into their new centre four years ago, OAPD also established a flourishing vegetable garden. The garden provides its members and a local retailer with fresh produce to sell, thereby generating additional income.
OAPD now offers 35 people with disabilities employment and serves 220 people with needs in the greater Hawston community. Twelve children and 16 adults participate in specialised day-care programmes.
For more information, e-mail: overstrandapd@hermanus.co.za or phone 028 315 1025. ■
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