DEEP Trust Rolls Out Happy Wheels Programme to Transport Children with Special Needs in Hyderabad

Hyderabad's DEEP Trust unveiled its "Happy Wheels" programme on Tuesday, presenting an 18-seater TATA Winger vehicle to Sri Vidhyas Centre for Special Children as part of efforts to ensure safe mobility for children with special needs.

The handover ceremony took place at DEEP Trust's facility in Mahendra Hills. Ballav Mundra and Dr. Madhu Vasepalli formally transferred the vehicle to Shanthi Venkat, with Swati Mohanty, parents, and students witnessing the event.

Octave India funded the vehicle through its Corporate Social Responsibility programme, according to officials present at the event.

Sri Vidhyas Centre for Special Children has been serving children with intellectual and developmental disabilities for the past 27 years. The institution currently cares for 150 children and operates on a no-fee basis.

Transportation has emerged as a persistent obstacle for families with children requiring special care. Many households lack dependable and secure travel arrangements, making it difficult to access essential services.

The Happy Wheels initiative seeks to bridge this gap by facilitating reliable transportation, enabling children to reach educational facilities, therapeutic sessions, and recreational programmes. The vehicle will enable safe commuting between residences and schools, potentially boosting school attendance while easing the burden on parents and guardians.

"Access is fundamental to true inclusion," Mundra remarked at the event, characterising the programme as a significant step forward for affected families.

Dr. Vasepalli highlighted how resolving transportation barriers could foster greater self-assurance, autonomy, and personal development among children with special needs.

Mohanty stressed that the initiative represents a commitment to fostering an atmosphere where children with special needs experience genuine support and feel valued within their communities.

DEEP Trust has called upon corporate entities and donors to invest in comparable programmes. The organisation is actively seeking contributions to expand transportation services, improve accessibility, strengthen educational offerings, and expand therapeutic support for children with disabilities.