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PCSN hosts annual Christmas party for kids with special needs

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Joyetter@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Children with special needs and their parents were treated to an early Christmas party at the Department of Women and Youth Center.

Parents of Children with Special Needs Network (PCSN) partnered with the Department of Health as well as high school Interact Clubs and the Rotary Club of Pago Pago.

The annual Christmas party was held last week Saturday.

“The interact clubs and DOH each hosted activity tables that featured dart games, ping pong ball toss, face painting, tie dye t-shirts, a photo booth, and ornament making. We also had a bounce house, singing, and Christmas tree decorating.

“Plus a ton of food,” said Sandy Scanlan who heads PCSN.

PCSN is a Parent-to-Parent Support Group for children, youth, and young adults with disabilities.

Co-sponsored by the Parent Training and Information Center and Leadership in Disabilities of Achievement of Hawaii, they support one another in areas of health care, education, inclusion, community activities, guidance, and emotional encouragement.

Scanlan told Samoa News individuals with disabilities that attended ranged in age from toddlers to adults.

“They came with their families and friends.

“The atmosphere was full of excitement and joy. Everyone interacted and had time to get to know other families. 

“Our purpose is not only to get our kids into the public more so they can enjoy community, but also for our community to become familiar and comfortable with our disability members. “We had a few of our kids bless us with singing as well. 

“There was also a visit from Santa and gifts for everyone,” said Scanlan.

She said this year’s annual party was a collaboration of PCSN, Rotary and Rotary’s Interact Clubs from 4 high schools, and Rotaract.

Also collaborating were the DoH, the DoH Le’o O Aiga program, Southseas Broadcasting, and J-Len’s T.