Jordan Wilson, aged 19, became a Cram client when she was three and Cram’s youngest client recently turned 18.  

Now the foundation is seeking more government funding so it can expand its services. 

In 1932 the Wollongong and District Society for Crippled Children was formed, later becoming the Illawarra Society for Crippled Children. 

In 1999 it became  the Cram Foundation.

Of the 33 people  in Cram homes, 22 have been with them since they were children. All are now adults.

‘‘It is ironic that an organisation previously named after children and catering for children now only has adults in its care,’’ foundation CEO Gareth McKeen  said.

‘‘It is not to say that Cram does not want to care for children, it’s more a case of our children growing up, yet remaining in our care.’’

Cram operates seven group homes.  

Miss Wilson has both intellectual and physical disabilities. 

She lives in a group home at Albion Park with  three others.  

Diane Wood,  a registered nurse who works at the home, said her main purpose was ensuring residents enjoyed life.

‘‘As their needs change with their age, we have multi-disciplinary teams involved in making sure she’s comfortable and all health needs are being met as best they can,’’ she said.

‘‘We try to make sure she has access to things other people do.’’

Mrs Wood and community services worker Kathy Kelly have helped Miss Wilson for 16 years.

‘‘She’s got a lovely personality; she’s a tomboy,’’ Mrs Wood said.

‘‘She’s just grown into such a wonderful young lady,’’ Mrs Kelly said.

‘‘She’s graduated from high school, went to her Year 12 formal.’’

Mr McKeen said the foundation could still look after younger people.  

‘‘We need to grow and expand, otherwise our future is threatened,’’ he said.