LITTLE EDEN is Home to several adults and children with Down Syndrome – including Matthew and Yolandi. With National Down Syndrome Day just around the corner, we thought you might be interested in finding out a little more about their condition.

Down Syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome at the moment of conception. It is neither hereditary nor the result of an illness during pregnancy. It’s a life-long condition.

Whilst many children born with the condition can go to school, participate in sports and live normal lives, others who are more severely affected – or who also have profound intellectual disability – may require lifelong care.

36-yearold Yolandi was only 12 days old when she was admitted to LITTLE EDEN; she has never known any other home. Like many of the residents at Elvira Rota Village, Yolandi enjoys helping out with the chores. Tasks like folding laundry add structure and routine to her days, and give her the dignity of ‘work’, for which she earns extra treats like sweets and cold drink.

We are grateful to our generous donors for making it possible for us to provide a safe and loving home for life, for people such as Yolandi.