New Burgershoop shelter brings hope to 120 homeless
A state-of-the-art shelter in Burgershoop offers food, skills training and support services to help the homeless rebuild their lives.
A new homeless shelter in Burgershoop has officially opened, symbolising a hopeful step toward restoring dignity for those experiencing homelessness.
Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM) communications officer Refilwe Mahlangu shared that the new facility was launched by the city’s Social Upliftment Division in collaboration with the Gauteng Department of Social Development.
“The launch was a heartwarming event attended by government officials, supportive community members and inspiring civil society organisations, highlighting how teamwork can make a real difference,” she said.
Mahlangu added that during the celebration, Executive Mayor Lucky Sele and Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Social Development, Faith Mazibuko, helped unveil the shelter, marking a proud moment for the community.
Sele expressed that the shelter is ‘more than just a roof over people’s heads’, emphasising that it offers a pathway toward independence, made possible through the strong partnership between government, non-profits and the community.
Dubbed the Quegal Restoration and Refuge Centre Krugersdorp Shelter for the Homeless, the facility can accommodate up to 120 individuals across eight specially designed container units.
“The shelter features a fully equipped kitchen serving three nourishing meals daily, separate showers for men and women, and a safe, inviting space for gardening, skills development and friendly social interactions. Residents can also participate in bakery and agricultural projects, access treatment for substance abuse, receive medical screenings, counselling and support with family reunification,” explained Sele.
Mazibuko emphasised that this initiative respects each person’s humanity, recognising their dignity and potential. Similarly, the Member or the Mayoral Committee for Social Development and Health, Wonderful Segolodi, shared that the project is about restoring dignity to the homeless, pointing out that ‘they are not hopeless’.
“The Department of Social Development, along with local municipalities, non-profits, and faith-based groups, will keep working together to provide safe, temporary shelters and vital services that help individuals find hope and rebuild their lives,” Mazibuko concluded.
