In 2006 the Bluestack Special Needs Foundation was established to provide direct
supports to people with additional needs and direct supports to their families and
carers.
The Bluestack Special Needs Foundation has as its core aim to “Enhance the Lives
of People with Additional Needs”. Working with families who have dependants with
physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental health disabilities, regardless of whether
the disability results in profound, moderate or mild additional needs. More
importantly the foundation work with families pre diagnosis offering a needs based
response.
They fundamentally offer practical advice, emotional support a range of programmes
such as:
The Saturday Club Each Saturday Donegal Town and Falcarragh
After School Service – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Low Cost Counselling – On request
Teen Youth Club – Every Thursday
Bluestack Choir – Every Monday night
Parent Support Network – First Tuesday of every month
Jiving Classes and Get Fit – every Wednesday
Alternative Respite Solutions on behalf of TUSLA and HSE
Behaviour Therapy
Bluestack Shack Coffee Dock
Community Services Programme
Training and Progression Programme for young adults
Information Dissemination
Directory of Disability Services in Donegal
Summer Camp– Available during July and August
Play Therapy supports
Lobbying for Equality - ongoing
Full disabled toilet and shower facilities – Available during office hours or by appointment
One of the most important services we offer is the Listening Ear, a place where
people can go, have a cup of coffee, offload their concerns and just be heard. A
space where people are safe, are not judged, and are supported through the various
life challenges that present when living with, or caring for someone living with, a
disability.
The Bluestack Special Needs Foundation recognises that the supports we offer are
only a drop in the ocean relative to the supports so desperately needed by families.
But those supports have a ripple effect and they are working.
With continued support we can continue to influence the general discourse on
inclusion, empower people living with a disability to self-advocate and express their
needs and most importantly continue to be that beacon of hope offering relevant,
timely and practical responses to the expressed needs of our members.
For more information on the Bluestack Special Needs Foundation check out their
Facebook Page Bluestack Special Needs Foundation, our website,
www.bluestackfoundation.com or call to their offices in Bluestack House, The Glebe,
Donegal Town, Co. Donegal.