I CAN! PARTNERSHIP CREATES WIN-WIN OPPORTUNITIES

ICan! Port Elizabeth is proud to announce its partnership with Leonard Cheshire Homes Cleary Park.

In 1993, in response to a desperate need for residential care for disabled persons, Cleary Estate Cheshire Home opened its doors to 40 severely disabled adults from the local community.

Over the years, the home has had to face considerable financial challenges, but with the support of many: donors, volunteers and staff have managed to overcome and create a wonderful service to an impoverished community.

In order for our learners to successfully complete their learnerships, they are required to engage in sufficient practical experience to ensure that they are ready for the open labour market when they exit our academies. Our partnership with Cheshire Homes provides an ideal opportunity for these learners to be making a significant impact in the community; whilst completing the practical component of their learnership.

Cleary Estate Cheshire Home accommodates residents with a variety of disabilities and some with multi-disabilities. Some engage in recreational activities and hobbies to create a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Local volunteers are crucial to the life at the Cleary Estate Home. They bring a sense of family and belonging.

The home is situated in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth and serves 42 residents. There is a fusion of all races with the majority of residents being African. There is also a beading and fabric painting project onsite which gives the residents an income-generating opportunity.

A children’s programme that serves 45 physically disabled children from the community is situated on its premises. Transport is provided daily from home to Cleary Estate Cheshire Home  using an aging vehicle. Daily  children are provided with a cooked meal. Physical and educational stimulation is provided in a programme designed to prepare the children for mainstream education. It is rewarding to see them advance to regular schooling where they will be socially integrated into an equal opportunity environment.

The hygiene and cleaning learners in our Port Elizabeth academy are cleaning the home weekly providing an essential service; but also gaining the hours and experience they need to prepare them adequately for their future.

ICan! is committed to serving the vulnerable minorities in our communities in any way we can. If you are interested in donating or volunteering with us in any one of our partnerships, please feel free to contact your local academy. For donation or support for the Cheshire Homes initiative, please phone Lauren Butler at our Port Elizabeth academy at 078 467 2051; or lauren@www.ican-sa.co.za.

Leonard Cheshire: NPO no 009-117