This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Hermanus Child and Family Services (HCFS), an organisation dedicated to protecting the well-being of children and preserving family life in Hermanus.
The story of HCFS began in October 1944 when Mr and Mrs JH Sims gathered concerned citizens in their home to discuss the needs of the less fortunate residents of Hermanus.
In its early years the Society identified two primary needs in Mount Pleasant: a community hall and a crèche for the children of working mothers. The vision for a community hall was realised in 1966, thanks to a bequest from Dr Moffat and additional funding from the Department of Coloured Affairs. The Mount Pleasant Crèche followed in 1954, starting with 21 children and eventually moving to a larger building to accommodate growing demand.
In Zwelihle, the Society organised work parties, soup kitchens and clothing distribution. Recognising the need for safe spaces, they established a crèche and playground, providing essential care and a place for children to play safely.
The Society secured part-time services of social workers in 1958, and joined the government food-aid programme in 1992, helping hundreds of families with essential supplies. From 1992 to 2019 the Society underwent a period of transformation, eventually re-emerging as Hermanus Child and Family Services.
Today, HCFS is a professional organisation with five social workers, a social worker supervisor, two social auxiliary workers, and a dedicated management and administration team.
HCFS General Manager David Duncan emphasised the organisation’s mission is to protect, heal and empower. “Every child deserves the opportunity to flourish,” he said, “and HCFS is committed to making this a reality. As the organisation continues to expand its services it remains dedicated to creating a brighter and safer future for all children in Hermanus.”
HCFS will be mark its milestone and legacy as well as its ongoing commitment to the community with a special evening of dining and dancing on Friday 30 August from 18:30 at the Hermanus Golf Club. The dress code is formal.
The event aims to raise funds for Hermanus Child and Family Services, with all proceeds supporting its child protection head-office upgrade. This project includes the development of a vital child protection and therapy centre.
Tickets are available from Webtickets. Visit www.hcfs.org.za or send an email to info@hcfs.org.za for more information.
