This year, the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) proudly celebrates the 14th anniversary of our Nappy Run campaign. This vital initiative raises awareness about the needs of children with disabilities and encourages the donation of children and adult size nappies from 03 October to 03 December throughout South Africa.
“For the last 13 years the campaign has supported an average of 2000 children per year throughout South Africa. While the primary focus is on delivering nappies, we also take the time to evaluate children for wheelchairs, and we are fortunate to receive wheelchair donations from generous donors for many children with disabilities.
During these visits, we collect information on children with disabilities who should be in school but are currently excluded from the education system. With the help of the Child Law Society, we are making progress in litigating against the Department of Basic Education to ensure children receive the education they deserve.
Our efforts aim to restore the dignity of children and their families, help parents get their children into schools, and provide them with the chance for an education. We focus on improving hygiene and health, preventing pressure sores and infections. By giving parents and children the assurance that they are valued and worthy of support, we contribute to reaching our country’s development goals by supporting the most vulnerable members of society.
Our work aligns with the goals of the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, addressing the most basic need and right for inclusion.” Says Danie Marais, Senior Manager of Projects and Programmes at National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).
Children disabilities often have a high need for nappies through childhood and beyond, requiring the use of nappies into their teen and adult years. “Without a nappy, children are often denied dignity, comfort, freedom of movement, and their health is compromised,” says Therina Wentzel, National Director at the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).
The database of persons with disabilities and Centres continues to grow. The NCPD makes a humble but urgent call to all South Africans to support its nappy collection drive by donating nappies larger than standard baby sizes or by making a monetary donation (Nappy Rands) towards the purchasing of nappies.