A NEW home for disabled children in Malmesbury has been given a marvellous gift of beds, desks, chairs and sofas from two Chinese charitable organisations.

The Jo-Dolphin Centre for the Disabled opens its doors in early September. It will house and care for 80 special needs children from Malmesbury and its surrounds.

Yesterday, members of the South Africa Soong Ching Ling Foundation and the Fujian Overseas Chinese Association donated 20 wooden beds and mattresses, 50 quilts and blankets, 10 dining tables, 40 chairs, as well as computer desks, sofas, stationary, food and kitchen appliances.

The Jo-Dolphin Swartland Association for Persons with Disabilities is building the home, which cares for 20 special-needs children at a rented space in the town.

Association member Jacques Swart said the new home will allow them to care for four times more children in need. "We appreciate all that you have given us, and we will make the best of it," he said in thanks.

The Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Cape Town Kang Yong said he hoped the donations would contribute to the "smooth opening and management" of the care facility.

Chen Qing, chairwoman of the South Africa Soong Ching Ling Foundation said they decided to donate after a visit two weeks ago. She hoped the gifts would "warm the bodies and the hearts" of the children.(This report is reprinted from Weekend Agrus, June 12,2016)