This year marks a significant milestone for the Greater Benoni Child Welfare (GBCW) as it celebrates 100 years of dedicated service to the community.
Established in 1924 by Henrietta Terblanche, this venerable institution has been at the forefront of protecting and nurturing vulnerable children in the Benoni area.
Terblanche’s vision and passion led to the founding of the Greater Benoni Child Welfare.
Initially operating from modest offices on Harpur Avenue, Benoni, the organisation has grown over the decades, adapting to the changing needs of the community.
In 1983, the society moved to its current premises in Northmead where it continues to serve as a beacon of hope for countless children and families.
A significant chapter in the organisation’s history was the establishment of Colin House, the Child and Youth Care Centre, in 1992.
This facility was created to provide a safe, caring, and loving environment for children found to be in need of care.
Over the years, Colin House has expanded its capacity to accommodate 20 children, thanks to an extension completed in 2003.
At Colin House, the focus is not just on meeting the basic needs of the children but also on fostering a sense of belonging and security.
The staff is dedicated to creating a nurturing atmosphere where children can thrive, heal, and grow. The work done here goes beyond mere housing; it’s about restoring dignity and providing a foundation for a brighter future.
Today, Greater Benoni Child Welfare offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at supporting and uplifting children and families within the community. These services include:
• Prevention and intervention services: includes child abuse prevention programme
• Crisis intervention
• Mediation
• Parenting plans
• Support groups
• Foster care supervision
• Community campaigns and awareness
GBCW operates in several areas including Daveyton Central, Swazi, Shangaan, Cloverdene, Chief Luthuli, Basethong, Morehill, Northmead, and Airfield. The organisation is deeply embedded in these communities, working tirelessly to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment.
The legacy of Greater Benoni Child Welfare is one of unwavering commitment to the well-being of children. Over the past century, the organisation has played a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of children and ensuring they have the opportunity to grow up in a loving and supportive environment.
As Greater Benoni Child Welfare celebrates this remarkable centenary, it looks forward to continuing its mission of care and protection for the next 100 years.
The organisation remains dedicated to advocating for children’s rights and providing a sanctuary for those in need, reflecting the enduring spirit of compassion that Terblanche envisioned a century ago.
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