Cholmondeley Children's Centre facts for kids

Cholmondeley Children's Centre is a special place in Governors Bay, near Christchurch, that helps children and their families. It offers short-term or emergency care and education for kids, usually between 3 and 12 years old. The Centre plays a very important role in supporting families when they are facing tough times or a crisis. It gives children a safe and caring place to stay. Cholmondeley is a registered service that helps children and families, and families can ask for help directly.

In April 2013, the organisation changed its name from 'Cholmondeley Children's Home' to 'Cholmondeley Children's Centre'. This change showed that they were focusing on providing short-term care. Their goal is to help keep families together and prevent bigger problems where outside help might be needed.

Location and History

Cholmondeley was started in 1925. It was a gift to the Canterbury area from a man named Hugh Heber Cholmondeley.

After the big 2011 Christchurch earthquake in February 2011, the original old house was badly damaged and had to be taken down. For a few years, from March 2011 to July 2015, the Centre operated in two different places. The children stayed at Bellbird Heights, which is nearby at Living Springs. Meanwhile, the teaching and office work stayed at the original Cholmondeley Lane site.

During this time, people worked hard to raise money for a new building. They successfully collected $4 million! By July 2015, a new, modern building was finished. It was designed to be perfect for its purpose. On October 9, 2015, the new Centre was officially opened by Prime Minister John Key.

Since 1925, Cholmondeley has cared for about 28,000 children. Today, it helps around 500 children every year.