The Disability Trust is proud to recently open the doors to Nanga Mai, a short-term accommodation centre at Dapto which will provide respite for children with disability and their families.
Nanga Mai, which means dream in the local Dharawal Indigenous language, is a 24/7 short-term facility that caters for a wide range of needs.
The modern centre is the first of its kind in the Illawarra and for many families who have not been able to enjoy the benefits of short-term accommodation, it will be a welcome relief. It is not just for local residents – The Disability Trust will accept referrals from outside the region.
Nanga Mai caters for children aged under 18 who are five years and above, and the colourful centre is staffed around the clock every day of the week.
There are five bathrooms, a sensory room with a swing and learning resources, three living areas including a loungeroom, a gaming area and a sunny courtyard. Kitchen and bathroom facilities are fully accessible with a hoist to cater for people with complex mobility needs.
The layout is wide and flat to help people with limited mobility and there is an elevator to get up and down the two storeys.
Staff can provide 1:1 or 1:2 care and also transport participants to nearby activities.
An open day will be held on Monday 18 March from 1pm-5pm for anyone interested in checking out the facilities with a view to arranging a short-term stay for a child with disability. There will be activities for kids to participate in at the centre with afternoon tea served as well.
And if that date doesn’t suit, the friendly staff can arrange another time for a visit so people can have a look around and see if the facilities are suitable for what they need.
Children can be booked in for short-term stays starting with a two-hour block, building up to overnight stays.
Our staff can provide guidance around NDIS funding for short-term stays at Nanga Mai.
The name of the centre was chosen in consultation with local members of the Dharawal community and a beautiful mural created by Indigenous artist Garry Purchase takes pride of place in one of the living areas.
To enquire about Nanga Mai’s short-term accommodation services, please email stat@disabilitytrust.org.au or phone 1300 347 224.
