Freestate Care In Action - Zastron

Free State Care in Action was established by Pres. and Mrs. MT Steyn as the then Oranje-Vrouevereniging on 25 March 1908 on the farm Onze Rust, just outside Bloemfontein.

The social disruption, economic impoverishment and drought in the years after the Anglo-Boer War caused unbearable distress and suffering, particularly for women and children, and the establishment of the OVV (the first organised association for social services in the Free State at that stage) was therefore widely welcomed.

From humble beginnings in 1908, an organisation developed that is still relevant after 100 years, and brings hope to the lives of thousands of people in distress.

dfgThis organisation exercised an influence on a broad front with regard to the preservation of cultural and moral values as well as the upliftment and development of individuals, families and communities, and also played a leading role in the establishment of numerous services that are taken for granted today, such as maternity hospitals, district nursing services, home management schools, nutrition schemes, working classes, clubs, etc.

Free State Care in Action’s strong, established infrastructure and loyal corps of volunteers and staff, as well as the knowledge and experience gained over the past 100 years, enable this organisation to now provide a service and take the lead at all social service levels.

Vrystaat-versorging in Aksie/Free State Care in Action/Tlhokomelo Tshebetsong Ya Freistata, was announced as the new name of the Oranje-vrouevereniging during a gala event on 23 March 2006.

The name was the beginning of a new era for the organisation.