Pope Francis covers the cost of a beach for disabled children in Rome

Pope Francis has put up his own money to cover the rent of a specialised beach for disabled Italian youths. The donation was made through the papal alms giver in the pontiff's name this morning (25 April).

The beach in Fiumicino, Rome, provides special walkways for disabled users to reach the sea and facilities including changing rooms and bars, according to TgcomT4.

It is staffed by volunteers from The Madonnina, a non-profit that runs the beach, as well as specialist medics and members of the Paralympic Italian Swimming Federation.

Organisers describe the site as "a beach without barriers – both architectural and mental – where everyone can enjoy the sea together with its many benefits".

"It rediscovers the importance of caring for others, the rediscovery of the uniqueness of the human being, regardless of whether it is disabled or able bodied," they add.

Earlier this month, Pope Francis opened a launderette for homeless people in Rome. Six free-to-use washers and dryers were installed in the city's Trastevere district. The Argentine has attracted universal praise for his charitable deeds since becoming Pope in 2013.

The beach is open throughout seaside season from 9am to 7pm seven days a week. The cost of the rent was not cited in the announcement.