Presbyterian Support Otago (PSO) is one of the most respected and successful non-profit organisations in region, and employs over 1100 people supported by 600 volunteers.
It was the first social services organisation established by members of the Presbyterian Church in New Zealand, and although autonomous, PSO retains links with the Church and is proud of its traditional Presbyterian support base.
Established 1906, PSO is one of seven autonomous Presbyterian Support regions in New Zealand. Incorporated under the Charitable Trusts Act 1957, it is a major provider of health and social services in Otago, relying upon the generosity of donors to help provide services through Family Works. Contracts with health authorities provide a variety of services for older people both in their own homes or in residential care.
In earlier years, PSO provided residential care for disadvantaged children, progressing into residential care for older people with the opening of Ross Home, Dunedin, in 1918. The late 1960s saw the organisation broaden its role still further, with the establishment of the Cameron Centre, providing a range of counselling and educational services.
PSO continues to respond to changing community needs.
