Upgrades to haven bring a rebirth

Rand Refinery in Germiston handed over the refurbished House of Magdalene, valued at R3.2m, at the Mercy Haven in Boksburg on October 10.

The refurbishment at the shelter for abused women and children was completed over four months as part of Rand Refinery’s 2024/25 socio-economic development programme, in partnership with the Germiston SAPS.
Rand Refinery CEO Praveen Baijnath, Mercy Haven chairperson Daryl Gabin, representatives of the Germiston SAPS, and other stakeholders attended the handover ceremony.

Baijnath said GBV remains one of South Africa’s most severe social challenges.
“GBV is not just a social issue; it’s a national emergency. Every statistic represents a woman, a child, a family torn apart. We believe business has a duty to act. Mercy Haven is more than a building; it is a sanctuary that restores dignity and hope.”

He added that the initiative reflects a broader vision for sustainable community impact.
“This project shows how partnerships between corporates, the SAPS, and local stakeholders can deliver life-changing results. Our commitment is to continue standing with survivors and building safer futures.”

Upgrades to the shelter included refurbished sleeping quarters, improved communal kitchens, and new private counselling rooms. A colourful children’s play area was also created to provide a sense of safety and belonging, along with several other enhancements.

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Gabin said the support had transformed the building and the lives of many women and children.
“We all know the painful realities of GBV. Every day, women and children face unimaginable fear in places that should feel safe. Our shelter was struggling, space was limited, facilities were ageing, but our vision was to create a nurturing home.

“Rand Refinery didn’t just see a building in need of repair; they saw broken hearts that needed healing.”’

He emphasised that the shelter had undergone a full transformation.
“Our bedrooms were modernised, the children have a colourful, joyful play area, and women now have private spaces for counselling and recovery.
“This is more than a renovation; it is a rebirth. Rand Refinery has restored hope and dignity to hundreds of women and children.

“For the women and children who arrive here, this home is often the difference between life and death. Thanks to this company, our shelter is now better equipped to provide safety, care, and a path to recovery.”

Sergeant Ramadimetja Regina Ramokolo, the GBV and domestic violence co-ordinator at SAPS Germiston, praised the ongoing collaboration.

“We approached Rand Refinery when the SAPS had to establish GBV offices nationwide. They listened and have supported us since 2020. Mercy Haven has always been our go-to shelter because it operates around the clock. When the company reached out to support a community project, we alerted them to the haven’s deteriorating condition, and they immediately stepped in to help.
“Thank you for hearing us. Our victims can now feel at home in a space that is safe, welcoming, and beautiful.”

Also Read: Mercy Haven undergoes major renovations