Thaba Homeless Shelter: a beacon of hope in Thabazimbi

Thabazimbi – The Thaba Homeless Shelter stands as more than just a shelter; it is a beacon of hope for many. Beverly Kühn, the shelter’s founder and manager, emphasises the ongoing need for support: “We welcome any form of donation, from financial contributions to household items, cleaning supplies, and food. Every bit helps.”

Operating the shelter is no small feat. It consumes about 40 rolls of toilet paper and goes through approximately 30 loaves of bread each week. The financial strain is significant, especially considering that most residents are unemployed and cannot afford the R2,000 monthly fee for their stay, which includes three meals a day and a safe place to sleep. This fee, requested only from those who can afford it, goes towards covering the shelter’s basic expenses such as electricity and food.

Susan Masser, the chairperson of the shelter, highlights another aspect of their work: providing food parcels to those in need who cannot be accommodated within the shelter due to space constraints.
The shelter’s establishment was initially met with scepticism, with some community members denying the existence of homelessness in Thabazimbi. “The reality proved otherwise,” Beverly reflects. “There is a significant need in our community, and we are committed to helping our residents regain their independence.”

To this end, the Thaba Homeless Shelter offers various skill-building workshops for men, women, and mothers with children, aiming to enhance their employability. Despite the challenges, including dealing with residents who have histories of substance abuse, the shelter maintains a strict no-alcohol and no-drugs policy to ensure a safe environment for everyone.

The Thaba Homeless Shelter’s efforts to uplift the homeless population in Thabazimbi are commendable, but they rely on the generosity and support of the community. For those looking to contribute or seek more information, please reach out to Susan Masser at 072 349 0741 or Beverly Kühn at 078 403 1813.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need.