Who We Are
Hermanus Child & Family Services (previously Child Welfare Hermanus) is an organisation designated by the Department of Social Development to provide child protection services in Hermanus, Western Cape.
Established in 1944, we provide social and developmental services to children, families and communities. We have been servicing the community of Hermanus and surrounding areas for over 75 years.
Establishment Timeline
Founding of the Society
The society had its origins at a meeting, in October 1944, in the home of Mr and Mrs J H Sims, where the formation of a welfare society was discussed.
Constitution Adopted
A constitution was adapted early in 1945 with the aim of “protecting the interests and well being of the inhabitants of the town and district of Hermanus and to promote their mental and moral welfare, and to use available legislation for the protection of children and the preservation of family life.”
Mount Pleasant Créche Opened
During August 1954, the Mount Pleasant Crèche was opened by the mayor of Hermanus and by the end of the year it was attended by twenty-one children. Fees at that time were two shillings (20c) per week for the first child in a family and one shilling and three pence (13c) per week for the second.
Moffat Hall in Mount Pleasant Opened
Dr Moffat, who was a member of the Management Committee from 1945 and later served as president, left a bequest on his death in 1954 for the building of a community recreational hall in Mount Pleasant. The formal opening took place in 1966 and was celebrated by Mount Pleasant residents with a dance.
Hawston Crèche Established
The annual general report of the Society in 1976 recorded that the crèche had officially been opened after some delays were experienced during building operations.
Ilse Graue Centre Opened
As the result of a bequest made by Ilse Graue, building of the new headquarters commenced in November 1985 and the official opening took place in 1986.
Play School Gansbaai Established
The building was officially opened on 15 May 1992 and made provision for the care of 30 children.
Jubilee Haven Opened
The first children were admitted to the Society’s new haven during July 1994. This facility was be named Jubilee Haven to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the existence of the Hermanus Child And Family Welfare Society.
Work begins on Izibusiso Foster Home
Izibusiso Foster Home, a joint venture between the United Church in Hermanus and Hermanus Child Welfare, to address the plight of small children in Zwelihle.
Lighthouse foster home opened
Terminate affiliation to Child Welfare South Africa
Hermanus Child & Family Services established, independent and responsible for all standards and services.