Western Cape Department of Social Development opens first-of-its-kind Child and Youth Care Centre in SA

On 5 September 2025, the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) – in partnership with Baphumelele Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC) – opened the Fountain of Hope Intermediate CYCC in Philippi.

This is a first of its kind facility in South Africa, providing accommodation and support for young people transitioning from secure care to integration into community-based CYCCs.

A Secure Care Centre houses children in conflict with the law or with serious behavioural challenges who require specialised rehabilitation, while a community-based CYCC provides residential care for children in need of care and protection in a less restrictive environment such as those in foster care.

DSD has allocated R1.5 million to the Fountain of Hope Intermediate CYCC, which can accommodate 25 children.

Baphumelele founder Rosie Mashale said, “Thank you DSD for choosing us to be the ones to pilot this project. My hope for the children is for them to get a second chance, that they may see life through different eyes. I hope that when they exit this programme they will become even more valuable than they already are, and that they will be recognized by the community."

Western Cape Minister of Social Development Jaco Londt said this facility is a critical response to a long-standing systemic gap in the child protection system in the country.

He said, “Children who are placed in Secure Care Centres are often there because of serious challenges that require intensive intervention. When these children begin to show meaningful progress, when they respond positively to our programmes and demonstrate a readiness to move forward – the path ahead should be one of continued support and opportunity. The Fountain of Hope Intermediate CYCC stands between secure care and our level 2 community-based centres. It provides a structured yet nurturing environment, less restrictive than secure care, but still robust in its support mechanisms. It is a place for young people who have shown they are ready for change but still need guidance, mentorship, and time to adapt before transitioning into community-based care settings.”

The children who will be accommodated at Fountain of Hope Intermediate CYCC come from numerous Secure Care Centres across the province and are those who have been found to be ready for integration into community-based care.

The Western Cape Department of Social Development funds seven Secure Care Centres, one CYCC Substance Treatment Centre, and 49 community-based and NPO-run CYCCs.  

To access more information about services offered by the Department, call our toll-free number on 0800 220 250, send an email to SD.CustomerCare@westerncape.gov.za  or visit: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/social-development/services

Media Enquiries
Monique Mortlock-Malgas
Media Liaison Officer to Minister Jaco Londt
Department of Social Development
Email: Monique.Mortlock@westerncape.gov.za