Casual fun day for children with disabilities

The Gateway School in Ruimsig hosted a Casual Fun Day on September 6 organised by the school’s Employee Health and Wellness team.

The event was held to support children living with disabilities and coincided with the 30th annual Casual Day, a national initiative that raises awareness and funds for people with disabilities.

According to Constable Mokgadi Mabotja from Honeydew Police Station, the primary objective of the event was to create a platform where the children are seen, heard and valued for their uniqueness.

“Casual Day is a day where we celebrate people living with disabilities. This year, we decided to adopt The Gateway School [a special needs school] and spend a fun day with the learners, spending time with them was a way for us to acknowledge them, see their potential and for who they are,” she expressed.

Under the theme ‘I See You’, the event emphasised the importance of inclusion and visibility for persons with disabilities. Attendees were reminded that regardless of ability, everyone deserves recognition and respect. The day was filled with team-building activities that brought together participants for games like soccer, netball, and recreational games.

The bring and braai segment added a festive touch, with braai stands set up for everyone to enjoy.

To further contribute to the cause, attendees were able to purchase Casual Day stickers for R20, with 40% of the proceeds said to be going to the South African Police Service Education Trust for orphaned children within the police.

Those who attended expressed great enthusiasm and gratitude for the event, many noting that it was a meaningful way to support an important cause while engaging in a fun day of games and social activities.

Casual Fun Day 2024 was not only a success in terms of participation but also in furthering awareness and understanding of the needs and rights of people with disabilities.