OUR PROJECTS
The Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town’s vision is to foster the cultural, social and economic integration of migrants, refugees and South Africans into local society. Perceiving migration as an opportunity, the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town is committed to alleviating poverty and promoting development in the Western Cape while fostering integration between migrants, refugees and South Africans. In providing our assistance, we advocate respect for human rights and use a holistic approach that considers all basic needs.
The Scalabrini Institute for Human Mobility in Africa (SIHMA), established in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa, is dedicated to advancing knowledge and understanding of human mobility across the African continent. Through rigorous research, SIHMA contributes to the development of informed policies that uphold and promote the rights and dignity of migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
Guided by its vision of an Africa where the human rights and dignity of people on the move are fully ensured, SIHMA works to generate and disseminate evidence-based insights that shape meaningful and humane responses to migration. Its mission is rooted in supporting just, compassionate, and informed policymaking that protects vulnerable populations and fosters a more inclusive society.
Lawrence House, based in Woodstock and registered with the Department of Social Development, is a specialised child and youth care centre providing a safe, nurturing, and therapeutic environment for children and young people in need of care and protection. Accommodating up to 25 children and youth, the organisation supports those displaying psychological, emotional, and behavioural challenges, as well as separated refugee children and unaccompanied foreign minors. Guided by its core objective of promoting healing, resilience, and personal growth, Lawrence House offers a range of developmental and therapeutic programmes designed to meet the diverse needs of its beneficiaries. These programmes focus on identity, belonging, self-discovery, emotional regulation, and social reintegration. Children also learn to adapt to structured routines, set scholastic goals, and prepare for independence through a dedicated transition programme.
A child may be placed in Lawrence House through the provisions of the Children’s Act (Act 38 of 2005) if a Children’s Court finds them in need of care and protection. Individuals concerned about the wellbeing of a child are encouraged to contact their nearest Department of Social Development office immediately (information available at 021 483 3083). Beyond direct care, Lawrence House is committed to advocating for the rights and protection of displaced and vulnerable foreign children in South Africa. Through innovative programme development and a strong advocacy agenda, the organisation remains at the forefront of responding to the complex and evolving needs of young people in institutional care.