WHEELING, W.Va. (CNS) – Catholic schools throughout the statewide Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston now have access to funding to be used to give children with special needs the opportunity to receive a Catholic education.

The Foundation for Inclusive Religious Education of West Virginia is making it possible for all students to have access to an education grounded in the lived Gospel values of the Catholic faith. The foundation was founded in 2014 by a group of parents who shared a common dream of allowing children with special needs the opportunity to attend their parish schools with siblings and friends.

The foundation will offer financial grants to qualifying schools within the diocese. The grants will assist with the cost of special education teachers, para-educators and resources that will enable schools to educate children with special needs alongside their peers.

Officials of the foundation said the program will enhance the education of all children by teaching acceptance, compassion and the value of every child of God. They said the program also helps children grow up to appreciate each person’s unique gifts.