The House Group

The House Group was founded in 1990 by Jean and Adéle du Plessis in the inner-city of Johannesburg, South Africa. The organization was started in response to the problem that, at the time, there was NO legislation in place that allowed anyone (even Government agencies) to provide outreach or care services to destitute girl children. While there wer... e numerous, well developed residential care and outreach services for homeless and destitute boys (called Street Children at the time), the little sisters of these boys were not taken care of and were therefore forced to fend for themselves on the streets of the slums. In the decade that followed after establishment, The House Group shelter partnered with multiple international Governments (like those of the Netherlands, Belgium and Sweden) and organisations like the Embassy of the United States of America. Long term and sustained public advocacy for girl children rights ensured recognition of The House Group in national and international media and forums as a leading advocate of the issue. Despite immense challenges of inconsistent flow of funds and lack of regulatory support, The House Group grew into a network of four residential care centres, a skills training centre and also ran various other programs. Due to the single handed advocacy efforts of The House Group, in 1997 the South African Government passed legislation that made it legal to help destitute girl children. The House Group had the privilege to shape the policies for both local and national Government to create manuals of best practices and Standard Operating Procedures. This game-changing new regulation helped many other shelters to rise up and help abandoned and abused girl children. Over the years, The House Group has restructured its programs and shelters. Currently it runs one residential shelter for abused, abandoned and destitute girls under the age of 19 years in Hillbrow, Johannesburg. The House Group will celebrate its 26th birthday in January 2017. The House Group receives Government ...Read More