About the foundation
Our story began in 2008 with a simple response to people who needed help.
Behind the businesses, schools and established neighbourhoods of Cape Town's southern suburbs sits a community where many families face a very different daily reality. In Westlake, financial hardship, food insecurity, difficult family circumstances and limited access to opportunities can place enormous pressure on children and those caring for them.
01 — Our history
As those relationships grew, we came to understand that vulnerability rarely has a single cause.
A child struggling at school may also be dealing with hunger, transport difficulties, inadequate clothing or instability at home.
A young person may have enormous potential but little exposure to opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings.
That understanding shaped the Orphan Care Foundation.
Over the years, our work has evolved from responding to immediate needs into programs focused on food security, education, creative development, youth mentorship and practical family support.
Today we continue working alongside the Westlake community and our partners to help create opportunities that can make a lasting difference.
The challenges remain significant, but so does the potential of the people who live there.
Our purpose is not simply to give to Westlake. It is to work alongside its people helping children and young people build the confidence, support and opportunities to shape stronger futures for themselves and their community.
02 — Our mission
To support vulnerable children, young people and their caregivers by providing care, creating opportunities for education and enrichment, and fostering pathways to confidence, skills, participation and a brighter future.
03 — Our vision
A society where every child and young person, regardless of their circumstances, has the support, opportunities and confidence to realise their potential and participate meaningfully in their community.
04 — Our values
OCF’s values shape how we respond to vulnerability, work with communities and steward the resources entrusted to us.
Responding to vulnerability with empathy, dignity and care.
Treating every person as deserving of respect, voice and agency.
Working to ensure children and young people are not excluded because of circumstance or vulnerability.
Creating opportunities to develop confidence, skills, independence and agency.
Using creativity as a means of expression, learning, connection and discovering potential.
Working with communities, organisations, institutions, donors and individuals to strengthen impact.
Acting responsibly, transparently and ethically in the use of resources and in our relationships.
Valuing belonging, participation and collective responsibility.
05 — Get involved
Whether you are an individual, business, community organisation or potential partner, we welcome opportunities to collaborate with people who share our commitment to supporting vulnerable children and young people.
If you would like to get involved, support an initiative, explore a partnership or collaborate with Orphan Care Foundation, we would love to hear from you.
Email Christiane Christiane@orphancarefoundation.com
