Principal of the Lady Hochoy Centre in Gasparillo, Sister Antoinette Fahey, has called on the Government to provide a full-time physio-therapist for disabled children at her school.
Her call came as dozens of children from the home held their annual Christmas concert on Friday.
Despite their mental and physical challenges, the children successfully spread the Christmas spirit to everyone who attended their show. Each class put out a commendable performance, which teachers said was only possible through practice, dedication and commitment.
Fahey said the school had 156 students and 22 teachers. Although they had a vision to expand the services of the school, Fahey said this was not possible without funding.
She explained that the school has been trying to raise funds to build an early intervention school for children. However, despite numerous fund-raisers, Fahey said they were unable to reach their target. She urged members of the public to contribute financially to the project by making donations to the centre at any RBTT Bank, saying if the school is built, an additional 60 students will benefit. Fahey also explained that a physio-therapist and a speech language therapist were needed to assist the children on a full-time basis.
Meanwhile, the children at the home had special requests for Christmas. Fourteen-year-old Avinash Balkissoon said he wanted a new bike for Christmas, while Anand Basdeo, 21, said he wanted new clothes and a stereo set. Roland Dominic, 26 also said he wanted a bike, while Matika Duncan, 19, said she wanted a new dolly.
The excited children brought loud applause from the audience as they performed a range of skits and Christmas carols. Dinesh Bachan and Melissa Nanan performed a Shepherd's Rap, while students, led by Merlyn Zama, sang O Come Let Us Adore Him. Students from the Early Intervention Class performed a skit titled Going Down Memory Lane with Rudolf and Elfie, while teachers Frances Ramoutar and Sita Persad hosted An Orphan Christmas Story.