PCH was founded in 1904 to provide care and refuge for women in Cape Town who were without a place to call home. The idea was sparked by doctors at Somerset Hospital who saw the growing need to support women, many of whom had come to South Africa as governesses or domestic workers and, upon ageing, had nowhere to go. With support from community leaders and the wife of Governor General Sir Hely Hutchinson, land was secured on Rhodes Estate and the Home was named with the gracious permission of Princess Christian, daughter of Queen Victoria.

For a century, the Mowbray-based Home expanded to meet growing needs. In 2004, PCH relocated to Tokai, with the “Great Move” taking place in December. Lawton Court retirement flats followed in early 2005, and a second phase of 16 additional flats was completed in 2008. Today, PCH offers a safe and caring environment where older persons are supported to live with purpose, dignity, and connection. With a strong sense of community, personalised care, and a commitment to enhancing quality of life, we honour our long-standing tradition of compassionate service while embracing the evolving needs of those we serve.