The imminent closure of Epworth Children’s Home in December due to a lack of financial support underscores a pressing issue in the non-profit sector, especially within child-care services. This crisis highlights the critical opportunity for businesses and corporate South Africa to engage in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by supporting essential community services.
Epworth Children’s Home, which has provided care for vulnerable children for 106 years, is now at risk of closing permanently primarily due to severe financial difficulties, compounded by the absence of government support over the past 18 months. This looming shutdown will leave over 50 children, aged 3 to 18, without the stability, care, and essential services they depend on, reinforcing the urgent need for intervention and sustainable support.
While Epworth has long been a refuge for children affected by job loss, abuse, neglect, and other crises, the absence of a government grant has driven the home to the brink of collapse. In this dire time, Corporate South Africa is urged to step forward—not just for the immediate survival of Epworth, but to address the broader crisis in child welfare where NGOs are left struggling without sufficient public sector support.
Why Corporate South Africa must act
CSR should go beyond ticking boxes – it is about making meaningful, lasting contributions where they are most needed, particularly in areas where the government is unable to meet the demand. The closure of Epworth would not only be devastating for the children currently living there, but also a glaring reminder that corporate intervention is no longer just an option; it is a necessity.
The value of CSR extends beyond philanthropy. Corporations that invest in causes like Epworth are contributing to societal stability and the development of future generations. By supporting initiatives that ensure vulnerable children receive education, care, and emotional stability, companies are building a stronger foundation for a better South Africa. These children will grow into adults who can contribute to the economy, potentially becoming future leaders, employees, or entrepreneurs.
“Corporate South Africa has an opportunity and an obligation to fill the gaps where government support falls short,” says Karen Olivier, Business Manager at Waco Modular, a subsidiary of Waco International. “By supporting institutions like Epworth Children’s Village, companies are not only fulfilling their CSR goals but are also directly investing in the future of our country.”
A corporate-driven solution to a growing crisis
Epworth is just one example of how the child welfare system in South Africa is crumbling under financial strain. The lack of service-level agreements with the government has left many homes and NGOs in a precarious position, and the consequences of this neglect are severe. Without Epworth, the community faces a critical loss: children who have already experienced significant trauma will lose the care and protection that they desperately need.
Companies like Waco International have been supporting Epworth for years, but the scale of the need has now surpassed their capacity. It is time for other businesses to join in and allocate part of their budgets towards this and similar causes. CSR initiatives in this space not only create a positive societal impact but also enhance brand reputation, employee morale, and community relations.
Celebrating a legacy—But the work must continue
To raise much-needed awareness and funds, Epworth Children’s Village will mark its 106th anniversary in November, uniting families, businesses, and community members. This milestone should be a celebration of resilience, but it is also a call for urgent action. Corporates, through both financial and in-kind donations, can help stabilise Epworth’s operations, ensuring that these vulnerable children have a safe place to call home.
“Supporting Epworth is not just about charity—it’s about ensuring a future for children who otherwise face uncertainty and instability,” says Neurice Slade, Facility Manager at Waco International. “We need corporate South Africa to recognise the magnitude of their impact and take action.”
