After one offer of land proved unsuitable for Laois Down Syndrome, the organisation is still hoping to secure a donation of land to add to the promise of €10,000 from solicitor Gerald Keane.
The local group is hoping to develop a centre where they can provide training for young adults with Down Syndrome to improve their prospects of securing meaningful employment.
“We did have an offer of land put to us, but it wasn’t in a location suitable, going forward,” explained Michael Gorman, Laois Down Syndrome PRO.
“Since that we haven’t had anyone come forward but we are in contact with Laois County Council and we hope somewhere with some land will be made available,” he said.
If they can secure land, then it is hoped a centre can be developed to include a canteen and coffee shop, where young adults with Down Syndrome can learn basic skills for employment. It is also planned to incorporate a horticulture aspect to it also.
“It would be a centre of excellence where they can build their skills,” Mr Gorman said.
“What we need is about two to four acres of land and if anyone can help us out it would be hugely important,” Mr Gorman said.
At the recent gala ball in the Heritage at Killenard, Laois Down Syndrome was the chosen charity, and guest of honour Gerald Keane made an offer of funding of €10,000 to them.
Cradle to grave
The Laois branch has adopted a “Cradle to Grave Philosophy” whereby their members are supported throughout their lifetime. In support of this policy Laois Down Syndrome has extended its therapeutic services to include not only speech and language and occupational therapies but also now chiropody, reflexology, physiotherapy, yoga, swimming, music and cycling.
These services are available at greatly reduced rates for all members.
Mr Gorman said six blocks of therapies provided by the HSE are inadequate, hence the need for them to be supplemented.
He also said day care services provided by Rehabcare, while welcome, are also limited due to budgets etc., and this is why they believe the need for training to help young adults reach their potential is so important.
“They are equal citizens and are just as entitled as anyone else to have proper opportunities,” Mr Gorman said.
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