Over 90 years of service from Krugersdorp Child Welfare

For the Krugersdorp Child Welfare the protection of children and their rights, and the promotion of sound family relationships have been a priority over the past nine decades.

On 26 February the organisation celebrated its 95th anniversary after it was founded in February 1926 as a clinic, which later developed into a fully fledged welfare organisation.

A baby show was held to celebrate the first Children’s Day on 5 November 1927, and 12 years later in 1939 the first social worker was appointed.

“Initially, services were not subsidised and volunteers raised the funds to maintain them,” explained Pieter van Rensburg from the organisation.

Over the years the Krugersdorp Child Welfare has grown immensely and today it has one supervisor, five social workers, one social auxiliary worker, and one administrative support officer in its employ at the 3rd Street office in Krugersdorp North.

The organisation rendered its services to the greater Krugersdorp area but extended them to Munsieville and Pango Camp as well in 1995.

“Krugersdorp Child Welfare is committed to widening its reach to needy children and their families, and by further adding value to their quality of life.”

They provide a range of services to the abused, abandoned, neglected, orphaned and vulnerable children in the community, including those who have been infected and affected by HIV and AIDS.

These include a range of holistic, comprehensive and specialised services such as preventative services, mediation to resolve disputes between parents and children, drafting a parenting plan, life skills, positive parenting programme, and child protection.

“Where statutory intervention is required in terms of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, such services are also provided.”

Their treatment programmes offer medium to long-term therapy for the children and families they service. They include thorough assessment of victims, home visits, family therapy, and case conferences in collaboration with psychologists and professional consultants.

The organisation is also very proud of its Foster Care Services, which is responsible for recruiting, screening and training foster parents, as well as supervising and monitoring foster care placements.

“Through the work of the advocacy programme, the organisation aims to give children a voice. This plays an active role in the policy-making process, serves on various forums, and collaborates with other organisations to expedite the realisation of the children’s rights.”

If you would like to get involved in the activities of, or wish to make a donation towards the organisation, you are welcome to contact the supervisor, Renette Steyn on 011 953 1908 or send an email to kdpchildwelare@lantic.net.