For the last 15 years, The Cradle of Hope’s One Day Emergency Safe Home has provided refuge, transformation, and resilience, but CEO Melodie van Brakel has informed the Krugersdorp News that they must now say goodbye to this sacred space.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closure of the home, located in Dekker Street – a place that, for over 15 years, has offered sanctuary to vulnerable, abused, and homeless women and their children.”

Since its founding, she stated, the safe home has been a lifeline where women have arrived broken and terrified, leaving with renewed strength and dignity.

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“It’s a place where their children rediscovered laughter, safety, and the simple joy of play. Thousands of lives were restored within these walls – each story a testament to the power of compassion and community.”

For her, it is one of the most painful decisions they have ever had to make.

“People often believe that charities can survive on love and second-hand goods, but without financial support, even the most dedicated hearts are forced to stop and reassess. Love alone cannot keep the lights on – and that truth breaks us. Without financial support, even miracles must pause,” she added.

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They did not make this decision lightly.

She said this reflects a broader crisis: The chronic lack of government support for charitable programmes and the growing hardship faced by unemployed, homeless, and abused individuals.

“These systemic gaps make it increasingly difficult for organisations like ours to sustain essential services – and we understand that many in our community are also struggling. Yet even in this moment of loss, we remain committed to our mission. We will continue to operate our House of Restoration and our many other vital programs, fulfilling our mission.”

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Van Brakel stated that true to their motto – a hand-up, not just a hand-out – they will continue to walk alongside women and their children who need them, offering help and hope.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to every donor, volunteer, and friend who stood with us over these 15 extraordinary years. Your support made safety and healing possible. Because of you, thousands of women and children are safer, stronger, and standing tall today. As we turn the page, we invite you to journey with us into the next chapter. We need your support now more than ever. Every contribution helps sustain our mission and ensures that The Cradle of Hope remains a lifeline for those who need it most. It takes a village to raise a child – and a community to protect their future,” she concluded.