The Disabilities Resource Centre Trust is inviting Bay of Plenty residents to a community event on December 7 to celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

“Join us to celebrate on Saturday December 7, from 10am-2pm at Mitchell Park, Richardson St Whakatāne, with free entry and free activities,” said Disabilities Resource Centre Trust information services co-ordinator Naomi Freeman.

Freeman said the goal of the Disabilities Resource Centre Trust is to gather tāngata whaikaha Māori, people with disabilities, their whānau/caregivers, and all members of our community at the event.

“The event will showcase disability and community support organisations, performances featuring our disability community and local artists, a kids’ zone, facepainting, Circability’s ‘Have a go circus’ for all abilities, interactive games and mouth-watering dishes to purchase from food vendors.

“Our centre is devoted to providing an accessible and responsive service for people with disabilities and the elderly,” said Freeman.

“We aim to encourage and support them to exercise their right to live with dignity and maximum independence. We do this through information and advisory service, home care and community services.”