Introduction
Why I set up SNAP (Special Needs Autism Project)?
Hi, I’m Nadine,
As a parent of three neurodiverse boys, I fully realise the struggle of insufficient services & out of school activities/clubs for neurodiverse children. Also the lack of guidance, training & support for the parents & families.
Children with special needs, additional needs & autism are not visible in our community. They are not included. They have no access to leisure opportunities. Youth clubs do not seek out these children. These children are at a serious disadvantage compared to neurotypical peers of same age.
Through necessity & for the benefit to my own children & family life, I decided to “stop complaining” about the lack of a social network & start up my own youth club & parent support group for children with SEN & Autism. With the help & support of parents, in the South Armagh Community, SNAP was born.
What SNAP does?
We provide a weekly youth club for kids aged 4-18+ with additional needs, providing a variety of activities, workshops & social interaction opportunities in a safe environment. We also provide a monthly parent support group, where parents can meet, chat, share their concerns, worries, joys, help, advise & support each other.
SNAP has been in operation since June 2022, starting with 4 families locally, we now support more than 30 families in the wider South Armagh & Newry & Mourne Area. This number is growing weekly.
What you can do?
We hope SNAP will be a permanent fixture in our community & will develop and grow with the needs of the families it supports. This is only possible with the help of charitable donations. Your donations are greatly appreciated!
Also, if you would like to volunteer or join us we would love to hear from you: snapni@outlook.com
Thank you!
