We thought it would be wise to share some history and provide more insight into the Centre, particularly for the new parents who have joined our family. Welcome to all of you – we are confident your children or loved ones will enjoy their stay with us.
McClelland Adult Centre was established in 1952 by Major McClelland and his wife, both retired schoolteachers in East London. They recognised the need for a school and hostel for the many intellectually impaired children in the area. By 1959, the current site on Etheridge Road was allocated by the East London Municipality for the construction of a school, hostels, and a protective workshop.
In 1976, the school was taken over by the Department of Education, separating it from the Adult Centre. Today, McClelland consists of four hostels and a protective workshop, operating as a nongovernmental, nonprofit organisation. The Centre currently provides accommodation to 71 intellectually impaired men and women of all races.
Our dedicated staff members are trained professionals who are committed to treating every resident with respect and compassion. They work to create a homely and secure environment, encouraging regular family contact and visits during weekends or holidays.
The Centre’s four hostels house 71 residents, and the care provided by our housemothers creates a family-like atmosphere where each resident plays a meaningful role.
Residents participate in various therapeutic and educational activities aimed at fostering personal growth and independence. These activities include handwork such as sewing, crocheting, and beading, as well as physical exercises like swimming, walking, netball, basketball, and cricket for those who can participate. Social stimulation is provided through movie screenings, and residents also enjoy baking biscuits, tarts, and cakes. Choir practice is another favourite activity that brings our community together.
The Centre provides a protected workshop for all residents, along with an additional ten daily attendees who are transported to and from the Centre. The goal is to ensure each person, regardless of their level of intellectual disability, enjoys a good quality of life and the opportunity to develop some measure of independence. Through simple creative activities, residents gain a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Throughout the year, various social activities are arranged for our residents, including birthday celebrations, dances, and regular outings to local events such as teas, plays, and activities hosted by churches and charity clubs. One of the most beloved events is our “Fun in the Sun” day, which features swimming and a braai by the pool.
Our Centre hosts several fundraising events each year, including:
The Centre is governed by a Management Committee, elected at the Annual General Meeting to serve a three-year term. This committee meets monthly to manage the Centre’s affairs, while the operational functions are overseen by the Operations Manager, who works closely with the Finance Manager, Professional Nurse, and Supervisors. Monthly reports are provided to the Management Committee.
2024 has been a busy year for us, with several exciting activities and events. Our residents performed an ABBA-themed concert, which was a resounding success, playing to a full house. In addition to regular outings to the Guild Theatre and East London Zoo, we also hosted our Annual Big Walk.
We are grateful for the continued support from the Rotary Club of Bonza Bay, which brought the Easter Bunny to visit our residents, and the Rotary Club of Gately, which has generously donated supplies such as paint and sugar, along with treating our staff to cupcakes. The Vincent Methodist Church also hosted a tea and snack event for our residents and will be treating them again later this year.
The repainting of the Centre is progressing well, and the results are becoming increasingly visible. We have also received sponsorships from several companies, for which we are very appreciative.
We are currently preparing for our Christmas Carols concert, which will be held in late November – something to look forward to! Please note that the Work Centre and Bakery will be closing from 13th December 2024 and will reopen on 13th January 2025. This break will affect our daily residents, but not the permanent residents, as the hostels will remain open during this period.
Our Annual General Meeting was held on 25th September 2024. Thank you to all the parents and guests who attended. We extend our appreciation to the Board for their support over the past year.
We would like to congratulate the following staff members who have been recognised for their outstanding contributions:
We look forward to closing the year on a high note and are excited for all the wonderful things 2025 will bring!
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you or your loved one at McClelland Adult Centre.
