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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

1944

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.

1945

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.”

1954

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.

1966

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.

1976

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.

1986

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.

1992

Play School Gansbaai Established

The building was officially opened on 15 May 1992 and made provision for the care of 30 children.

1994

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.

2008

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.

2017

Lighthouse foster home opened

2019

Terminate affiliation to Child Welfare South Africa

Hermanus Child & Family Services established, independent and responsible for all standards and services.

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