THABAZIMBI SHELTER FACES CLOSURE

Thabazimbi – A heartbreaking blow has struck our town: the Thabazimbi Homeless Shelter, a safe haven for thousands over the past five years, has announced on Tuesday 30 September 2025, that it will be closing its doors.

For half a decade, the shelter has been more than four walls and a roof — it has been a place of hope, dignity, and second chances. Now, due to the collapse of a lease agreement with the property’s landlord, the shelter faces an uncertain future.

“This was one of the most difficult decisions made,” said Beverley Spira Kühn, shelter board member: operations. “On a personal level, I ask the community to please help us to find accommodation for the people currently living in the shelter and to help us support these people who will have to vacate.”

Beverley confirmed that “we are not insolvent and should we find alternative premises, we will continue to provide the service of a shelter to the Thabazimbi Community.” Yet, as it stands, the doors will close by the end of October unless a miracle arrives.

A mother with five children. An elderly woman.
Beverley made a heartfelt plea: “We are desperately trying to find accommodation for the people currently living in the shelter, especially the mother with five children and the elderly woman. After five years — and nearly 4,000 people who have passed through our doors — we cannot allow Thabazimbi to have no refuge for its homeless.”

Her words echo the community’s fears: what will happen to those who have nowhere else to go?

A story of redemption
One woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared how the shelter changed her life. She had struggled with drug addiction from a young age. At her lowest point, she and her partner were left homeless after being robbed on the streets. With nothing but their belongings in black bags, they had no place to go.

That night, they slept at the police station. It was there that police officers gave her Beverley’s number — and everything changed.

“Beverley took us in immediately. We lived at the shelter for five months without being asked for rent because we simply couldn’t afford it. The shelter gave me a chance to get clean, to rebuild my life,” she said.

Today, she remains drug-free. “If it wasn’t for Beverley and the shelter, I don’t think I would be alive today. My heart broke when I heard the news. This place saves lives — mine is just one of many.”

Her father, who stood by her side, added that they would do anything to keep the shelter open.

What now?
The shelter has helped nearly 4,000 people since its doors opened. Without it, countless vulnerable men, women, and children may be forced back to the streets.

Beverley, who has also announced her resignation after years of service, said: “We urge the community of Thabazimbi to please continue supporting us financially and otherwise until such time that a final decision is made regarding the future of the shelter. If any member of the public can provide information of any other options to move the shelter to, please contact me directly. This is, after all, a community project. God bless you all for showing us kindness.”

Visit Thabazimbi Homeless Shelter’s Facebook page for more information.