A safe space—one where second chances at life become possible—is celebrating a full year of bringing hope to those experiencing homelessness in Durbanville:
Durbanville, South Africa (23 April 2025) — Last year, the MES Durbanville Safe Space cut the ribbon and opened its doors to people in desperate need and want of second chances.
The shelter attracted love and applause from the public, especially as homelessness in Durbanville and its surrounding areas increased.
A year later, and many months of hope, healing and new beginnings can be reflected on.
“For years, those participating in our daytime therapeutic and rehabilitative programmes faced the heartbreaking reality of returning to the streets each night — often to dangerous and uncertain conditions,” explain the MES team. “This made long-term recovery and successful programme completion significantly more difficult. The launch of the Safe Space changed that, offering a secure environment and a much-needed ‘hand up’ to those ready for change.”
MES is a non-profit company and Christian social development organisation that pushed for space. With help from the City of Cape Town, it came into being just in time for the fierce winter of 2024.
With over a decades-long journey of helping create sustainable solutions to pervasive poverty in South Africa (from Joburg to the Eastern Cape) MES was well-equipped to take on the new space and help offer individuals experiencing homelessness a secure alternative to sleeping rough.
“We don’t just talk about impact—we know this works. We have proof of the success of day and night services,” explaines Ilse Maartens, Branch Manager of MES Cape Town.
As a Drop-in Centre, the safe space stands out as a first point of contact for many who want to change their lives. People can then go on to rebuild their lives with the basic as part of other MES services: obtaining identity documents, attending development workshops and other pathways to reintegrate into society.
Through the developmental workshops, MES has helped set 1,560 individuals on a path of change and growth. These workshops focus on spiritual growth, substance abuse disorder, anger management, and voucher earning, equipping our beneficiaries with the tools they need to rebuild their lives.
They have also facilitated 29 referrals to rehab, supporting individuals in their journey towards recovery. Moreover, 16 people have been reunited with their families.
During harsh winter nights, the drop-in centre provided a warm and safe haven for 951 individuals, shielding them from the elements and offering a sense of security. 121 People were also assisted in obtaining their identification documents.
The team’s efforts have also led to 29 beneficiaries securing permanent employment, marking a significant milestone in their journey towards stability and independence.
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