GABRIEL Kiros Mehari spent his earlier years on The Bluff before his life took a different direction at 19. For several years, he struggled with drug addiction, eventually seeking help through various recovery channels. While one initial attempt at rehabilitation did not lead to a lasting change, he eventually arrived at the John 8:36 Christian Lifestyle Centre, which changed his life around completely. 

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Mehari describes this period as a time of significant personal restoration, focusing on his mental and physical health through the facility’s structured environment.

Now 28, Mehari remains drug-free and has transitioned from a participant in the programme to a staff member. His daily responsibilities involve administrative tasks and guiding men who are entering the facility for the same reasons he once did. 

Aims of the centre 

The centre operates as a registered non-profit Christian rehabilitation facility under the direction of Donovan Peters. Its programme is built around faith-based recovery, combining spiritual guidance with practical life skills development, vocational training, and counselling. The programme is designed to move residents through detoxification and relapse prevention, with the ultimate goal of reintegrating them into society as stable individuals. 

To supplement the core recovery work, the centre engages in community outreach through partnerships with the Wentworth and Bluff Seventh day Adventist churches. Residents participate in external activities, such as attending camp meetings or visiting the Durban Botanic Gardens.

Aiding the programme

Operating the facility in Richmond requires steady resources. Mehari spends a portion of his time sourcing donations and raising awareness about the centre’s needs. The facility depends on contributions from individuals, businesses and religious organisations to remain functional. 

Current requirements for the centre include:

• Fresh fruit and vegetables
• Meat and grocery items
• ⁠Bread and milk
• ⁠Toiletries and personal care products
• ⁠Cleaning supplies
• Bedding and clothing
• Financial donations towards operational costs

“The centre is focused on helping men regain their dignity and repair damaged relationships,” said Mehari. 

Contact:

For those seeking admission or interested in providing material support, contact the centre on 076 087 4056 or send an email to john83624@outloo.com. 

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