Spring appeal
Your generosity has made such a difference in the past, please read on to see how your support is still needed.
From a very early age, John displayed characteristics of Global Developmental Delay, a form of intellectual disability. He didn't walk until he was two, and was slow to learn new things such as play and social skills. As a result, John was disruptive and hyperactive, always demanding his mother's full attention. When it came time for kinder, he was unable to sit still, and had no concept of sharing or taking turns. Areti was constantly challenged by John's behaviour, and her older daughters suffered.
There was an agonising wait for support services, and even then they were few and far between. It was also impossible to access services that could address all of the family's needs. They came to Melbourne Citymission looking for help.
A Circle of Support is for a child with a disability or learning disorder, who attends a mainstream primary school, childcare centre or kindergarten. Circles of Support bring together a small group of the child's peers, family, teacher and counsellor, forming a support network able to identify and solve difficulties, and provide encouragement and recognition of the child's progress and achievements. The group was able to address John's behavioural problems, and working in a small group once a week enabled him to concentrate and relate better to his friends.
We need your help to ensure that Melbourne Citymission's Circles of Support Program and other disability services help families like John's. It's vital that children with disabilities are given the chance to live up to their potential.
Please give your gift today to support these important services.
