Community Based Model ECD in South Africa

Research in South Africa, and internationally, indicates that the early years are critical for development, and that one way of overcoming the adverse effects of poverty is to provide good quality ECD programmes for young children with support to their families. Research has also shown that quality ECD learning and care leads to higher levels of physical, cognitive and emotional well-being and better rates of lifetime learning and productivity. The early years have been recognised as the ideal phase for the passing of values that are important for the building of a peaceful, prosperous and better society. Early provisioning and interventions for children at risk can reverse the effects of deprivation and make it possible for children to grow and develop to their full potential, thus reducing the need for remedial services to address developmental lags and social problems later in life. Jireh Community Projects is a Non-Profit Organisation based in Mitchell’s Plain, Cape Town. Jireh was established in 1989 and was registered as an NPO with South Africa’s Department of Social Development in 13 September 2000. In response to the above, Jireh Community Projects was founded in order to: Uplift poor communities to experience spiritual, social and economic freedom Assist people to become active in their communities by participating in programmes Help local residents take ownership of their resources and gain sustainable income through training and support initiatives Leave a footprint and a lasting positive legacy for our people Give hope to humanity

Based in Cape Town, South Africa, we provide services and programmes to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of early childhood development provision to children in the Cape Town. The Early Childhood Development (ECD) Programme is Jireh’s flagship programme. The project has been in existence since 1989. ECD is an “umbrella term” or a general classification that refers to the process by which children from birth to seven years of age grow and flourish socially, physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually and morally.

Jireh is composed of individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, united in their passion for supporting early childhood education and their dedication to The Jireh mission of ensuring all young children receive high-quality education regardless of background or economic position. The Jireh Early Childhood Development Centre strives in its mission to promote, provide and support quality sustainable and holistic early childhood development (ECD) for children from 8 months to 6 years in the Mitchell’s Plain Community, by providing a safe, welcoming learning environment which encompasses all areas of child growth and development.