The history of the Durban Child and Youth Care Centre goes back to an informal meeting of 5 people who identified the need for a crèche for vulnerable little children in the Durban vicinity. The Durban Crèche and Children’s Home, as it was named, began to operate out of a house in Second Avenue, Greyville, in September 1905, accommodating children of working mothers and those incapacitated by illness. After the house was found to be unsuitable for a child care centre, the organisation moved to a property on the corner of Berea and Cato Roads.
By August 1908 the Durban Corporation responded generously to a plan to purpose build suitable accommodation for the children. We were offered an acre of land in Manning Road opposite Bulwer Park. This is where the first residential buildings were established and remains as home to vulnerable children to this present day. In November 1987 a proposal was made to change the name to Durban Children’s Home. At the same time, the girls home became known as Francis House as a gesture of appreciation to Mrs. Sylvia Francis, a Committee Member of many years. The boys’ home was renamed Falcon House – a name chosen by the boys themselves.
Please read the full history of our organisation here – a history that reflects a deep love and concern for the children committed to our care.
New logo launched
In celebration of our 120 years of service to the most vulnerable members of our community, the Durban Child and Youth Care Centre is excited to unveil our new logo and visual identity. The logo symbolises a nurturing home with ‘heart’ at its core, radiating light and joy as children thrive, grow and celebrate life beyond its walls. Its fresh, bright color palette expresses the diversity of the many children and youth who have accessed and benefited from our services and support over the past 120 years.
With ‘heart’ at the Home’s core, what better way to celebrate than to launch our new look in the month of love, with the official launch date being 24th February 2025. In September this year, we will be commemorating our 120th milestone with a special Gala Dinner in celebration with the city. It will be a wonderful opportunity to honour our incredible community of supporters – businesses, trusts, foundations, religions groups, social clubs, school groups and dynamic individuals – all of whom have made a significant impact and strengthened the cause over the years.
More details of the event will be advertised on our website and social media platforms closer to the time. Community members are encouraged to sign up and join our online community for more information, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.