The New Indian Express ·
Vellore initiative empowers autistic adults through skills, handmade products and dignity
VELLORE: An array of wooden hair clips, handmade earrings, canvas paintings, a collection of painted pottery and jute bags, and many other handmade goods are on vibrant display at Made by Special Hands, a shop initiated to channel the creativity of autistic individuals.
Brainchild of the Day Activity Centre (DAC) in Sathuvachari and Autism Residential Community in Anaicut, the initiative was was inaugurated last year in Sathuvachari to address an important question: Who will take care of an autistic child as they transition into adulthood, and what will happen to them after their parents pass away?” Made by Special Hands. The DAC and ARC empower these adults by offering dignified skill development through subject-matter experts so that they can manage their basic needs independently.
"These items are made by the children from our centre with the help of instructors," Founder Pradeep Jeyathilak said. "Autism is a developmental disorder; it is not a mental illness. Every autistic person needs lifelong support. The biggest challenge we have as a society is to comprehend who will care for the individual after their parents are gone," Jeyathilak added.