What began as one man’s battle with addiction has grown into a place of hope and restoration for men seeking a second chance at life.

The Cherith House of Restoration, Rehabilitation Centre, and Discipleship Hub, better known as Cherith House, has become a beacon of hope in Meyerville after relocating to a larger property in Esselen Street to accommodate the growing demand for rehabilitation services.

Originally from Johannesburg, Pastor Quincy Jacobs moved to Standerton in 2024 with a vision to help those struggling with substance abuse and spiritual brokenness.

Jacobs said that although he had a good upbringing and a prayer warrior mother, he began making poor choices at a young age after falling into addiction.

What started with alcohol, dagga and party drugs later escalated into crystal meth and heroin addiction.

“For many years, I hid it well from my family. They came to learn that I liked to drink, but were under the impression it was only alcohol and not hard substances,” said Jacobs.

His addiction eventually spiralled to its darkest point. Jacobs described hearing voices and witnessing what he believed to be spiritual attacks around him.

“I would hear demonic voices telling me to harm my mother. I had to leave the house. I could not harm her,” he said.

After leaving home, Jacobs spent years living on the streets, disconnected from family and trapped in addiction.

He missed funerals, family events and important milestones as drugs consumed his life. At the age of 38, Jacobs experienced what he describes as a turning point after becoming critically ill from heroin use.

“I got my encounter with God. I prayed and asked Him if He gives me another chance, I will do His work,” said Jacobs.

“I loved drugs. I loved smoking my crystal meth and living the lifestyle; I had no plans of leaving it. Had I not gotten sick that day, my life would never have changed. God delivered me.”

Now sober for several years, Jacobs says his recovery journey inspired him to create an affordable rehabilitation facility for others battling addiction.

Cherith House first opened in February 2025 in Dr Nelson Mandela Drive after Jacobs and his team were offered a rental property.

However, demand quickly outgrew the premises. The centre has since moved to a larger property in Esselen Street, where 25 men are currently undergoing rehabilitation.

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“This space is ideal. There is enough space and a garden; we want our people to feel comfortable, not like prisoners. This space is called the Discipleship Hub,” said Jacobs.

The rehabilitation programme combines recovery with spiritual mentorship and discipleship. Jacobs believes overcoming addiction is only part of the healing process.

“Recovery is not just about the addiction; it is about building a foundation, because once you have overcome the addiction, what are you going to do?” he explained.

Residents follow a structured daily programme, beginning with devotion at 06:00. Their days include meals, chores, gym sessions, board games, counselling, fellowship, and evening devotion.

“We are Christ-centred. The most important part of our day is how we start and finish it,” Jacobs said.

The programme runs for a minimum of six months, and since opening, the centre has assisted around 70 people from across the country, including residents from Cape Town.

While not everyone commits fully to recovery, Jacobs estimates the centre’s success rate at approximately 60%. Several men currently in recovery shared their experiences at the centre.

“I was close to being on the streets and hit rock bottom. Coming here at first was hard, but spiritually it has helped me. I have found God, and by His grace, He brought me here,” said one recovering addict.

Another resident, currently in his 12th rehabilitation programme, said the centre had helped him rebuild his sense of responsibility and purpose.

A young man from Westbury said gangsterism and drug abuse had led him astray before arriving at the facility through a sponsor.

“I am here to change my life and make the right decisions for myself. I have grown spiritually and want to be a good son for my parents,” he said.

One resident who battled addiction for 18 years said the faith-based approach at the centre made a significant impact on his recovery.

“All the glory goes to God for the change He has brought in my life every day. We have to be patient with the process for Him to do the work in our lives,” he said.

A 17-year-old resident encouraged young people to be careful about the company they keep.

“Our addictions start with the wrong friends who influence us. Focus on school and get your education,” he advised.

The centre welcomes donations of food, paint for interior walls, and gym equipment to support the rehabilitation programme. For more information or assistance, contact Jacobs on 082 687 7199 or 067 062 9418.