For nearly a decade, the Vasco Special Needs Centre (VSN Centre) has been a beacon of hope and purpose for young adults living with autism and other special needs.
Founded on 5 March 2016 with humble Saturday morning workshops, the centre has grown into a full-fledged weekday operation. It provides structure, vocational training, and inclusive support to a group of exceptional individuals. The operation is guided by the simple but powerful motto: “Where we are Able.”
But now, this registered non-profit and public benefit organisation faces a critical crossroad: the impending loss of its premises.
The lease not being renewed
“We were informed by the church, which has kindly hosted us since 2017, that our lease will not be renewed when it expires on 30 September,” says Pieter Schoeman, chair of the Vasco Special Needs Centre.
“Nor do we anticipate that the church will continue to facilitate the R50 000 sponsorship from an external organisation that we’ve relied on annually.”
While the church did not provide detailed reasoning, they stated that their decision was based on internal matters. They have expressed hope that the centre will secure a new premises.
“The church had and AGM and one of the agenda items was the extension of our occupation agreement.
“We were informed that the congregation voted not to extend our lease,” says Schoeman.
Tax-deductible receipts for donations
VSN Centre began with just a few special needs individuals and their families. As demand grew, the Centre transitioned into a weekday programme on 9 January 2017. It started operating from the church hall in Vasco Estate. Today, it serves 13 young adults—nine of whom attend full-time. Each participant is offered a safe, stimulating environment that fosters personal growth, independence, and meaningful engagement.
“Our attendees are young adults who are no longer able to attend school. Through our workshops, they craft hand-made products which are sold to help subsidise our operations,” says Schoeman.
Three experienced staff
The centre employs three experienced staff members, some supported by personal facilitators who assist specific individuals throughout the day. Participants pay a monthly fee of R2 500, which covers staff salaries. This fee leaves minimal resources for operational growth or emergency contingencies. Additional funding is raised through craft sales and fundraisers, with a long-term dream of acquiring a permanent property to call home.
“Since 2023, we’ve also contributed about R2 000 per month to the church’s water and electricity costs,” Schoeman adds. “We are grateful for the support we’ve received, but the future is uncertain.”
As a Section 18A-certified Public Benefit Organisation, VSN Centre can issue tax-deductible receipts for donations. Schoeman urges businesses, community members, and philanthropists to come forward with support.
Call to Action
The centre is now appealing for assistance in finding a new home and sustaining their operations beyond 2025. They welcome all forms of support: once-off donations, monthly contributions, and partnerships. People can also help by providing leads on accessible, affordable premises in the northern suburbs of Cape Town.
“This centre is more than just a place of care—it is a lifeline to families and individuals who too often fall through the cracks of mainstream education and employment systems,” says Schoeman.
Vasco Special Needs Centre urgently needs new premises by 1 October, as their current lease ends on 30 September. With limited financial resources, they are seeking either rent-free space to continue weekday operations or financial support toward rental costs. They also require essential furnishings such as work tables, chairs for up to 20 people, and a functional kitchen. These resources will support their life skills and vocational training programmes.
The ideal facility would include:
- Space sufficient to host up to 20 people
- Separate bathroom facilities for males and females.
- A safe and accessible environment.
- Proximity to Vasco Estate or surrounding areas in Cape Town
How You Can Help
The Vasco Special Needs Centre is appealing to businesses, property owners, community organisations, and government departments for urgent support. They need rent-free or sponsored premises and donations toward rental costs. Furthermore, they require essential equipment such as tables and chairs. Help with setting up and furnishing a new space is needed. Moreover, they seek financial contributions to their operational or property fund, and assistance in spreading awareness.
They also welcome partnerships through corporate or community initiatives and commit to recognising all support in a respectful and transparent manner.
For more information or to support the Vasco Special Needs Centre, contact Pieter Schoeman on 082 123 4567, or email vascospecialneeds@gmail.com. You can also visit their Facebook page: facebook.com/VascoSpecialNeeds
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