Grant Them Their Wish

From: NST Online

KAJANG: Slow learner Abdul Wafi Md Yunus, 24, loves to play bocce, a game similar to lawn bowls, and wishes that he has a new pair of jogging shoes.

This is because he believes he has a better chance of qualifying for the "Special Olympic National Games" with them. The games will be held in Perak in June next year.

Bocce is played on natural soil or asphalt courts while lawn bowls is played on grass or synthetic surfaces.Wafi is one of 13 students involved in the open employment programme conducted by the Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa in Kajang. He packages straws for a beverage company.

Housewife Aznita Md Noor wants a new toy for her son, Ahmad Taufiq Abdullah, 5, who is autistic. She said it would help him improve his concentration and motor skills. Taufiq is also attending special classes run by the association.

Wafi and Taufiq are among the 336 children and adults chosen to take part in the "Grant A Wish on Children's Day 2009" project initiated by Rainbow of Life Forces (Rolf) to help the disabled and those with learning disabilities.The project, which began on Sept 1, will end on Nov 15.

Rolf works with non-governmental organisations in the country to raise funds for various projects.In this project, a person gets a wish and the public can play the role of genie by granting them that wish. New Straits Times is the official media partner of the project.

Project manager Fong Chuang Boon said the wish list was a unique way for donors to help the less fortunate. "Those who would like to donate can go to our website and fill in a form. Donors can choose any of the charity houses listed and purchase items based on the wish list.

"Rolf will inform them of the date of the gift presentation," said Fong, adding that all forms must be submitted before Oct 15.The forms can be obtained at www.rolfcommunity.org. Rolf can be contacted at 03-5636 6821 or 019-272 0999.