The Special Needs Library assists parents and professionals by providing stimulating educational and therapeutic toys and equipment to children and adults with special needs.

The Library relies on grants and donations to serve its current client base of 1005. It has been operating for 30 years, and is the only organisation in Canterbury providing this particular resource.

In a joint partnership with the Christchurch Community Trust, the Wayne Francis Charitable Trust provides 50 percent of the Special Needs Library’s capital works, which is used to increase capacity into its services and expand its premises.

• www.specialneedslibrary.co.nz