Media Release

As Girls and Boys Town South Africa celebrates 68 years of existence, we stand at a moment of deep reflection, not only on the milestones we have reached, but on the countless lives that have been transformed through courage, compassion, and community.

For nearly seven decades, we have opened our doors to children whose worlds had fallen apart. Children who arrived carrying fear, trauma, grief, and uncertainty. Children who needed more than shelter, they needed healing, consistency, love, and a chance to believe in themselves again.

This is the heart of who we are.

This is the work that has defined Girls and Boys Town South Africa for 68 years.

A Journey Marked by Hardship, Resilience and Renewal. The past five years have tested us in ways we could never have imagined and yet they have shown us what unwavering commitment looks like.

 

2021: The Year We Lost… and Found Strength

In 2021, our Verulam Family Home for Girls was destroyed by a devastating fire.

It was a moment of heartbreak that shook our organisation to its core.

But even in the ashes, we found resilience. Communities, donors, and ordinary South Africans stepped forward, refusing to let tragedy have the final word.

 

2022: Rebuilding With Purpose

By 2022, the rebuilding began, not just of walls, but of confidence, safety, and dignity.

Every brick laid represented hope returning, and every room rebuilt became a promise to the girls who would one day call it home again.

 

2023: A New Chapter of Healing

On 13 February 2023, we welcomed the first group of girls back into a beautifully restored, trauma-informed, child-centred space.

Their smiles, their laughter, and even their cautious steps symbolised new beginnings.

 

That same year, we introduced our renewed organisational promise: Healing Heartbroken Children. A statement rooted in truth and lived out daily by our staff.

We celebrated growth, achievements, and resilience during our annual awards ceremony, a reminder of how far our young people can rise when given support and belief.

 

2024: Joy, Celebration and Transition

2024 brought joy in many forms matric dances, graduations, talent showcasing moments that reminded us that childhood can be reclaimed.

It was also a year of leadership transition, as we honoured the contribution of outgoing CEO Ms. Lee Loynes and welcomed Ms. Karen Farred into the role.

A milestone for the organisation and a moment that opens the door to renewed vision.

 

2025: A Loud, Visible Voice for Vulnerable Children

In 2025, Girls and Boys Town South Africa reached its highest media visibility in years.

This spotlight is not about us, it is about the urgent national need for early intervention, child protection, and healing programmes that reach the most vulnerable.

 

A Message From the CEO, Karen Farred

“Girls and Boys Town South Africa was built on the belief that every child, no matter their past deserves a future.

As we mark 68 years, I am moved by the courage of the children we serve and the commitment of the people who support this work. The road has not been easy, but every challenge has shaped us into who we are today.

We carry forward a legacy of healing, hope, and transformation, not as an organisation alone, but as a community united for our children.”

— Karen Farred, CEO, Girls and Boys Town South Africa

 

A heartfelt thank you to our partners, donors, schools, referral networks, staff teams, and every South African who has stood with us.

Your belief in our mission is the reason a child’s story can change. 68 Years Down. A Lifetime of Impact Still Ahead.

Girls and Boys Town South Africa remain committed to ensuring that every child who enters our care is seen, heard, supported, and empowered.

Together, we can build a future where every child has the chance not only to survive but to thrive.

ends

 

About Girls and Boys Town South Africa

Healing Heartbroken Children with Compassion and Care

Since 1958, Girls and Boys Town South Africa has been a sanctuary of healing heartbroken children. Our mission is to mend the invisible wounds of those who have faced unimaginable challenges, guiding them towards a future filled with promise and possibility.

 

Imagine a child whose laughter has been stifled by hardship and loss. At Girls and Boys Town South Africa we embrace these children with open arms, offering them more than just a place to stay—we give them a chance to reclaim their joy, rediscover their inner strength, and build a future they can be proud of.