DSD launches specialised CYCC for children with disabilities

The Western Cape Department of Social Development has launched the House of Grace Child and Youth Care Centre in Grabouw, addressing a critical need for alternative residential care for children with disabilities.

The NPO-run facility will accommodate 15 children with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities, who are in need of care and protection. It will provide safe, nurturing, development-focused care for vulnerable children aged 0 – 12 years. Each child will receive individual therapeutic services, according to their specific needs.

There has been a growing need for specialised alternative residential care, particularly for younger children with disabilities.

This child and youth care centre represents a significant investment in the wellbeing of children in the Overberg and surrounding communities. Previously, children with disabilities who required alternative care faced limited placement options.

Children being placed closer to their homes will positively contribute to maintaining the child’s family contact and support systems. 

House of Grace co-founder and programme manager, Rene Coetzee, said that many children in the region had never received any type of specialised services before. 

“We want to create a safe, stable and loving environment where the children feel a sense of belonging. We want to ensure that each child receives the care they need,” said Coetzee. 

She added that reunification was the ultimate goal, and that they would work with parents and families to provide them with basic training on how to properly care for and communicate with children with disabilities in their home environments. 

“This initiative is an important step in promoting inclusion, dignity and access to quality care for vulnerable children with disabilities. The establishment of House of Grace positions Grabouw as an important contributor to strengthening provincial child protection and disability care services,” said Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Jaco Londt. 

Media Enquiries
Esther Lewis
Head of Communications
Department of Social Development
Email: Esther.Lewis@westerncape.gov.za
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za