Craft for a cause

Saturday, 2 July 2011 00:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Here is your chance to help a worthy cause and empower the mentally disadvantaged people of Sri Lanka. Students of the Colombo Centre for Special Education have created a range of products that can be bought at the exhibition.

The students have made a wide range of exhibits including greeting cards, note pads, envelopes, gift tags, book marks, jute rugs, serviettes, dish towels, and pot holders. In addition, there will be wrapping paper, woodwork articles, bread baskets, wall hangings and other articles produced by the students.

Charika Muttiah, the Executive Director of the Centre says that the exhibition is being organised to encourage the students and to create more awareness among the public. “The Centre strives to develop the potential of the students’ creativity in a relaxed atmosphere. It is taking this opportunity to display the range of talents among the students as well as create awareness and respect for individuals with similar needs in our society.”

A non-profit making organization, The Colombo Centre for Special Education is a place for rehabilitation and care of the mentally disadvantaged males. Those who are enrolled at the Centre are with Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy and slow learners which have made them retarded in their mental growth.

“We are looking at the long-term needs of these young persons, when those who now care for them may be unable to do so. We are planning to provide them with permanent hostel facilities,” the Executive Director added. At present, the Centre has its own respite care facility where the students can stay over-night.

The Centre is funded through voluntary donations from individuals. The students of the Colombo Centre for Special Education will exhibit their talent at an Art & Craft Exhibition at the Lionel Wendt Art Gallery on 7 July (Thursday) from 9am – 7pm