NELFAM

TOGETHER HELPING ANOTHER

Every child deserves to learn, grow, and thrive

Kawanda, Uganda · Founded 2020

Changing Lives of Children with Down Syndrome and Autism in UgandaStarting Now

NelfamDownSyndromeandAutismSupportCenter

NELFAM is a family-focused initiative providing early support, caregiver guidance, and hope to children living with Down syndrome and autism, and to their families who currently have no access to specialized care.

Supporting children from birth

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Families to be supported

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Active Programs

0 Yrs

Of Service

Our Story

NELFAM

NELFAM Down Syndrome and Autism Support Center is a community-based disability support organisation based in Wakiso, Uganda, dedicated to improving the lives of children and adolescents aged 0–18 years with Down syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through early intervention, family empowerment, inclusive education support, and community advocacy.

NELFAM was established in response to the severe lack of accessible specialised services for children with developmental disabilities in underserved Ugandan communities.

What We Do

Evidence-based programs for every stage

Our programs are built on research and designed to support children and families from birth through adulthood.

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Early Childhood

Nurturing development from birth to age 5 with evidence-based care and family support.

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Youth Inclusion

Empowering children through school readiness, tutoring, and academic mentorship.

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Family Stability

Connecting families with housing, employment, and community resources.

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Interested in supporting our work?

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On the ground in Uganda

The reality. The work. The difference you can make.

The Reality

What many families across Uganda face

In many communities, children with Down syndrome and autism grow up without access to therapy, education, or structured support.

Families are often left alone — without guidance, resources, or hope.

At NELFAM, we are working to change that, one child and one family at a time.

What We Are Doing

Our pilot programme, running now

Our team on the ground is actively working in communities across Uganda.

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Identifying children in need of support

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Visiting families in their homes

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Providing basic therapy guidance to caregivers

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Introducing simple learning and developmental activities

This is the beginning of building an inclusive system of care where none currently exists.

Why It Matters

What your support makes possible

With even a small amount of support, we can reach families who have never had help before.

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Reach children who have never received help

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Equip caregivers with life-changing skills

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Create early intervention opportunities

Every contribution directly impacts real lives.

Be part of the change

Your support reaches a child who needs it most.

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Our Vision

THE FUTURE NELFAM FOUNDATION

NELFAM Campus Master Plan

Latest News

Updates from our community

World Down Syndrome Day 2025

March 21, 2025

World Down Syndrome Day 2025

Celebrating awareness and our community's incredible achievements.

New speech therapy program reaches 80 children

February 4, 2025

New speech therapy program reaches 80 children

Our expanded program is now in 6 partner schools.

Family Support Fund opens for 2025

January 10, 2025

Family Support Fund opens for 2025

Families can apply for grants to access therapy and educational resources.

Make a difference today

Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word — every action counts.