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Melbourne duo giving back in style with mini clothing that raises money for children with disabilities

Announcement posted by Saint Copy - Publicity and Content Marketing Services 10 Aug 2016

Melbourne mother’s Jacqui Di Benedetto and Ana Garcia have launched their funky kids-wear label Jacana Kids online, to help raise money for charities who support the early childhood development of children with disabilities. Central to their ethos is the celebration of the artistic expression of children; From love hearts to monsters, the Jacana Kids range features pieces carefully doodled by the hands of little people, with 50% of all sales going to Early Childhood Development programs in Australia. Sporting a serious streetwear attitude, Jacana Kids is not just a fashion statement, but also a charitable one.

After Jacqui gave birth to son Domenic, doctors confirmed her own suspicions when they informed her that he was blind. At six months of age his sight miraculously improved but brought with it two separate conditions: Cerebellar Vermain Hypoplasia, a rare brain disorder wherein a part of the brain (cerebellum) fails to develop fully, impeding balance and movement,  and Ocular Motor Apraxia (OMA), a neurological condition affecting controlled eye movement, often accompanied by speech difficulties, coordination issues, and developmental delays.

Committed to providing opportunities for Domenic’s development, his parents reached out to various organisations that proved extremely beneficial to his growth and development. Three years on, Domenic is walking, running jumping and even scooting! This leap in development has stunned his doctors and is largely due to the assistance of these services. From physical exercise, visual and mental stimulation and socialisation skills, Domenic is now thriving in a pre-school environment. “I am so thankful for all the support given to us by Early Childhood Education Services. We gained the practical tools and emotional support to help Dominic be able to live a full and independent life.” Said Jacqui.

Drawing on the gratitude for those who work tirelessly to help children like Domenic – Jacana Kids was born. Co-founder and close friend Ana Garcia said “We wanted our clothing to represent the inherent joy of childhood and a child’s own artwork encapsulates that perfectly.” The duo designs each range with comfort and style in mind, using artwork from children from their chosen charities as well as those who just want to see their kids’ artwork in the mix.

Each year Jacana Kids will donate 50% of their profits to different charities in Australia. This year their chosen charity is Yooralla, an organisation committed to supporting all people with disability to live independent and fulfilling lives. “It means so much to both of us that we can give back in this way and make funky clothing with heart that kids look good in along the way!” Ana said.

All Jacana Kids clothing are printed locally in Melbourne, using sustainable materials with manufacturers practicing ethical production values.

www.jacanakids.com.au
www.facebook.com/jacanakids
www.yooralla.com.au