CAFS Child & Family Services Ballarat

About

Cafs is a community service organisation providing a range of programs and services to children, young people and families in need of support. Our goal is to give every individual the optimal opportunity to live in a safe and nurturing family. We are governed by a Board drawn from the communities in which we serve and deliver a range of programs to support children, young people and families. These programs and services range from family counselling to homelessness assistance, men’s behavioural change programs and foster care. With more than 195 staff and 200 volunteers in offices in Ballarat, Ararat, Bacchus Marsh and Daylesford, CAFS provides help and support to more than 6000 individuals and families each year across the Victorian Central Highlands region. CAFS has a long history supporting families, dating back to 1865 with the Ballarat Orphanage and Ballarat Children’s Home. Although our programs and services have changed and expanded significantly since these early days, we are just as committed and passionate to helping children and families in need. CAFS aims to prevent the need for the removal of children and young people from their families, and to promote positive family life and community connectedness. We work with parents and children in their homes when there is a concern for the wellbeing of a child, providing short-term or long-term intensive support.