Projeto NACE When early support opens the door to inclusion

In Bom Jesus, Goiás, Brazil, many families struggle to find accessible and affordable specialized care for children with developmental disabilities. Recognizing this commonly cited challenge, members of the Fair Trade Committee at Associação dos Trabalhadores da Goiasa of Goiasa Goiatube Alcool Ltda., a sugar producer, prioritized early childhood support for their Community Development Funds. Both workers and residents in the surrounding area shared concerns about the lack of consistent, affordable services for children with diverse developmental needs. A 2024 needs assessment guided the worker’s decision, revealing the complexity of local needs. Among 288 responses related to childhood disabilities, 23% cited physical disabilities, 21% mentioned autism spectrum disorder, and 10% referenced attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The assessment also confirmed a strong demand for coordinated, multidisciplinary care, with families identifying a need for physiotherapists, psychologists, neurologists, and speech therapists. Based on these findings, the General Assembly approved investing $108,000 USD of their Community Development Funds towards the partnership between the Fair Trade Committee and the local government of Bom Jesus to support the initiative "Projeto NACE." The program provides integrated and ongoing support through a qualified team, offering psychological services, occupational therapy, nutrition guidance, and medical follow-up with neurologists or psychiatrists. Designed for early intervention, the project focuses on consistent care that can be integrated into daily routines. In 2025, Projeto NACE served 114 children from the community, ensuring continuity of care for families who might otherwise go without. Otávio Araújo is one of the children benefiting from the program. When he was younger, his mother noticed developmental differences, including limited speech and difficulty communicating. While recommended services existed in the region, their cost was prohibitive for his family. Through Projeto NACE, Otávio began receiving these therapies at no cost. Now five years old, he continues to get regular support in a structured environment focused on inclusion and respect. His mother explains the profound impact: “Anyone who knew Otávio at three and sees him now is amazed. If I had to define this project in one word, it would be ‘hope’ for a better and more inclusive society.”