THE Sompo Welfare Foundation has presented a cheque amounting to RM32,500 to Persatuan Sindrom Down Malaysia (PSDM).
It was given in recognition of the organisation's continuous efforts towards programmes and activities that improve the quality of life for Individuals with Down Syndrome (IDS) and their families.
One of their up-and-coming projects is the Assisted Live-in Facility (ALIF) project which will be used for the Assisted Living Training Programme.
"We are honoured to support programmes that aim to provide formal training to individuals with Down Syndrome to live and function independently as they progress to join the workforce in the future," says Berjaya Sompo chief executive officer, Tan Sek Kee.
With proper training, many, if not the majority of individuals with Down Syndrome are able to manage themselves and their daily needs.
However, they will also need some assistance, depending on their level of functionality.
Training programmes that focus on independent living are essential to help special needs children learn how to manage their daily lives with minimal assistance, says PSDM president, Norhana A. Bakar.
The Assisted Living Training Programme (ALIT) ALIT programme will kickstart with renovation of the current vocational building located at PSDM. The building will be furnished with facilities to enable teachers and students with Down Syndrome to stay for a short period for training.
It will feature live-in facilities such as a bedroom, living room and bathroom.
At this premise, the ALIT programme will be conducted in stages.
Training will emphasise various aspects, from personal care to home management and safety. Students will be taught self-management skills, personal hygiene and tidiness. Further to this, students will also be trained on personal safety as well as safety of their residence and belongings.
They will also be exposed to the fundamentals of money management through everyday activities.