Western Cape DSD launches innovative child and youth care centre
Pictured, from left, are Department of Social Development HOD Dr Robert Macdonald, Western Cape social development MEC Jaco Londt, Baphumelele founder Mama Rosie Mashale, and Fountain of Hope board chairperson Peter Hugo.
Image: Supplied
The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD), together with Baphumelele Child and Youth Care Centre, opened the province’s first-of-its-kind child and youth care centre (CYCC) in Philippi.
Launched on Friday, September 5, the Fountain of Hope Intermediate CYCC is designed to bridge the gap between secure care centres—where children with serious behavioural challenges or in conflict with the law are placed—and community-based CYCCs that offer residential care in less restrictive settings, such as foster homes.
Backed by a R1.5 million allocation, the facility will house 25 young people identified as ready to move on from secure care but still requiring structured support before they can successfully reintegrate into their communities.
Baphumelele founder Rosie Mashale welcomed the initiative: “I hope that these children get a second chance and are recognised as valuable members of their communities,” she said.
Western Cape social development MEC Jaco Londt called the project a vital response to a long-standing gap in the child protection system.
“This centre offers a structured yet nurturing environment, less restrictive than secure care but still robust in support, for young people ready for change,” he said.
The department currently funds seven secure care centres, one CYCC substance treatment centre, and 49 community-based CYCCs.