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A survey was carried out in the Southern Cape and Karoo 1969 to
establish the need for a residential facility to care of Intellectually Disabled people
in the region.
There was no immediate reaction and it was only in 1973 that the
issue was raised again by Mrs. Rosie van der Veen.
Eljada opened its doors on April 10th, 1973 in the Hall of the Dutch Reformed
Church, Oudtshoom South with 10 pupils and one teacher. The first hostel
opened during 1974 and it was soon realized that disabled over the age of
of 18 years should be accommodated separately, Eijada Sentrum opened in no.
12 Draas Street during 1974.
A new building, planned specifically for the needs of the disabled adult were
erected in Victoria Street during 1979/80 at a cost of R502 000 00. Miss Lynette
van Greunen, the first acting head, two housemothers and 12 adults moved in
during 1980. The building officially opened on 21st August 1981 with Mrs. Hanna
Stadler as Manager who was responsible for the layout of the garden on a very
difficult terrain.
Mrs, Herma Wessels was appointed Manager in 1984 and in this
position till 1996.
By 1988 the Main building was completely occupied commenced to
enlarge the workshop as well as the laundry.
In 1990 plans were made to accommodate more frail residents. A new
wing for this purpose opened in 1994.
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