Behind the doors of a Sunnyridge home, men who have experienced homelessness, abuse and addiction are learning that their past does not have to define their future.
Through shared meals, daily responsibilities and a safe place to sleep, Open Hands Support
Care Centre is helping them rediscover their dignity and rebuild their lives.
Established in 2019, the non-profit organisation provides shelter and support to vulnerable men, helping them develop life skills, to seek employment and, where possible, reconnect with their families.
With nine beds available, the centre offers daily meals, clothing and structured routines,
with residents taking turns to cook, clean and complete household chores.
The approach encourages independence and responsibility while allowing them to maintain their freedom.
Mark Oberem, who recently became involved in the care centre as a fundraiser, said he
was inspired to contribute to the initiative after listening to the residents’ experiences and
witnessing their progress.
“My heart has gone deeply into Open Hands. I would love to see all these guys back to
experiencing normal lives.”
The centre also helps residents cope with addiction and emotional trauma.
Residents who are committed to the rehabilitation process receive counselling through
Masithethe Counselling Services every two weeks, while the South African National
Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (Sanca) assists with drug testing.
The facility’s treasurer, Rodger Norman, said there was a stigma attached to men’s emotional struggles, saying society often expected them to deal with difficulties alone.
The belief that men should not cry or ask for help can prevent those experiencing
abuse, trauma or addiction from seeking assistance when they need it most.
Among the care centre’s residents, is Zjonrie de Lange, who was involved in hijackings,
robbery, gang fights and repeated encounters in prison.
De Lange said a conversation with his mother had prompted him to reconsider
where these choices were leading him to.
His son also became an important motivation for
change.
De Lange is determined to build a better future and set a positive example for his son.
Today, he describes Open Hands as a “place that feels like home, where I can work
towards becoming a better version of myself”.
The centre’s vice-chair, Trevor Willard, helps coordinate its operations and future plans.
The organisation hopes to expand its rehabilitation services, establish a vegetable
garden to help sustain the home and eventually develop additional community initiatives.
However, the centre depends heavily on public donations.
Essential needs include men’s toiletries, non-perishable food, household cleaning
products and men’s clothing suitable for those aged 18 to 30.
The centre also needs a bakkie to transport food and furniture and hopes to establish
a container on its premises where a Masithethe counsellor can provide more accessible
support.
Willard shared the story of a former resident who struggled with drug addiction before
receiving assistance from Open Hands.
The man has since turned his life around, runs a factory and is married.
For those involved, such progress demonstrates why continued support matters, even
when recovery is difficult and setbacks occur.
Community members and businesses willing to assist with donations can contact Willard
on 082-813-0206.
Banking details: Account name: Open Hands Support Centre. Account number: 101117055555
With continued community support, the Open Hands Support Care Centre hopes to
help more men move beyond their circumstances and towards a future filled with possibility.
