Two weeks after the overhang above the door of the donated office space for REACH crumbled forcing the office that provides education and support service for parents whose children have been diagnosed with autism, the government tabled a long-awaited bill today that will grant equal opportunity for persons with disabilities.

REACH President Mario Carey commended Minister of Social Services Melanie Griffin who introduced the Persons with Disabilities Opportunity Act and said it could not have come at a more opportune time.

“The closing of the REACH office hit us really hard,” said Carey. “Thank heavens when the overhang caved in, no one was there. But parents who depend on our monthly support groups have no place to meet right now, they have nowhere to go to get the help or information they need, even if it is just someone to talk to. We can’t get in to get any of our files or provide the daily telephone contact that is so important.”

While REACH is searching for new space – hoping again it will be donated – it is facing financial challenges in operating its popular summer camp that provides space for children with autism and their siblings.

“Our summer camp opened with a record number of campers, 77 the first day,” Carey said.

“We don’t want to turn anyone away but it’s not easy. We only got one grant this year. It was from the Lyford Cay Foundation. We are extremely grateful to the Foundation, but we need at least another $5,000 to keep the camp doors open for everyone who wants to attend. We hope someone will hear our plea. When this bill is enacted into law, it will change lives in so many meaningful ways. I commend the government, and especially Minister of Social Services Melanie Griffin, for recognizing the value of every human being, regardless of physical, mental or emotional challenge, and hope they pass and enact this legislation with a sense of the urgency it deserves.

This is an exciting and historic day for The Bahamas.”

Government has already committed to building a full centre for the disabled, complete with education, training and recreational facilities on a 20-acre site on Gladstone Road. Construction is expected to start on that very soon.

BETTER DAYS AHEAD: Despite the appearance, REACH President Mario Carey says there is hope in the future as the government tables an act granting equal opportunity to persons with disabilities.