After about 30 years at its Bath St site in central Dunedin, Anglican Family Care plans to move its operations to the former McKenzie and Willis building next year.
The welfare organisation, which has a staff of about 45, has been struggling with overcrowding at its present site since its Family Start and Family Support Service moved in together.
Chairwoman Hilary Allison said at the organisation's annual meeting yesterday while there had been some advantages in terms of both streams working together and developing relationships, it had provided a difficult working environment for staff.
Finding new premises had been a priority during the past year and while final details were still to be signed off, the plan was to move to the corner of Hanover and Leith Sts in March.
''It offers a huge amount of natural light and space. And for those who have had to park around town, car parks go with the building.''
As well as working on the move, the organisation had completed a strategic review of its services and had identified a need to diversify its income stream from its 81.3% reliance on government funding, she said.
The organisation, which posted a $10,000 deficit in the 2012-13 financial year, managed a surplus of $15,785 in 2013-14.
''We now have our eyes on the horizon, a strong new direction and consolidation of the strong work we do.''
Anglican Family Care director Nicola Young said it had been an unsettling time for staff who had already experienced a great deal of change.
''It has been extremely difficult and challenging. We are at a crossroads in our history.''
The strategic review identified the need for it to become more visible in the community and the need to develop better ways of responding to offers of help, she said.
A full review of its information communication technology systems led to the recognition of a need to update technology, including the phone system.
Yesterday's annual meeting was significant in that it would be the last time it was held in the Catherine Goodyear room at Bath St and it was the last meeting for Mrs Allison, who had been chairwoman for 14 years.
After being presented with flowers in thanks for her vision and contribution, Mrs Allison said the organisation would ''always be in my heart''.
Forsyth Barr chief financial officer Jim Hawker was taking over the role.
The contribution of staff members was also recognised at the meeting including the 20 year service each of practice manager Kathy Richards and Balclutha-based social worker Jackie Greenall.
Departing staff members receptionist Angela McCrae (about 14 years) and senior administrator Lynnette Campbell (30 years) were also thanked for their work.
