The Early Years

1930 - 1959

The origins of Resthaven trace back to the Great Depression, a time of economic hardship and social challenge, when services for older people were scarce, and many relied on Christian charity to survive. So it was that the South Australian Methodist Church community came together with a vision to establish a place for older people to receive the care and assistance they deserved.

They did so to the best of their abilities, evolving their offering over the years to continue providing outstanding care and support to older people.

1930 - 1934

Church 'Connexions'

Out of the shadow of the Great Depression emerged a dire need for accommodation for older women with nowhere to live and no one to care for them. Compelled to respond, the Methodist Conference of 1932 committed to establishing a Home Mission to meet this need.

1935 - 1944

The Formation of Resthaven

From a clear and simple idea to the official opening of the first home, Resthaven matured quickly in its early years. It seemed as though no sooner had more accommodation been made available, that there was even more demand for the new services.

1945 - 1959

Expanding Horizons

As the nation rebuilt after the war, so too Resthaven grew stronger with new homes and expansions. To support this continual and projected growth, a robust governance framework was developed, including a plan for financial viability into the future.