For 18 years, Hope Ithemba has opened its doors to women in Springs and surrounding areas facing unplanned pregnancies, offering counselling, support and hope during difficult times.

With new leadership, the organisation is entering a new season focused on compassion, unity, and expanding its reach within the community.

Vice-chairperson Bill Grundling, who has been part of the centre since its early years, explained that the pregnancy crisis centre officially opened in June 2008 after a church donated the building to the ministry.

“We did not know what to do with the building at first, but during a prayer meeting, Pastor Dave Holdt said he knew exactly what it should become: a crisis pregnancy centre,” he said.

Grundling shared that the idea came after Holdt had counselled women who were considering abortions and realised many had nowhere to turn for help.

The organisation’s vision is centred around “giving a future and a hope, saving lives and protecting futures”.

Bill said the centre provides a confidential and safe space where women can openly discuss situations such as abuse, rape, family rejection and financial struggles without fear of judgement.

“We do not make decisions for anybody. We simply walk the journey with them, explain the options available and support them no matter what decision they make.

“To see those children running around today is heart-melting,” he said.

The organisation recently underwent management changes after previous centre managers stepped down.

According to the organisation’s chairperson, Dave Payaniandi, the transition has brought renewed passion and vision to the organisation.

“We believe this is a new season for the centre, a season of compassion, love and unity,” he said.

According to Payaniandi, staff members and counsellors volunteer their time. He said that it is not for the income; it is for the outcome.

The centre also hopes to recruit more volunteers and strengthen community partnerships. One of the programmes receiving renewed focus is Undiluted, an outreach programme presented in schools to address teenage pregnancy, relationships, HIV awareness and sexual decision-making.

Centre supervisor Margie Grundling explained that the programme encourages learners to think critically about relationships, peer pressure and the consequences of sexual choices.

“We are not there to judge learners or tell them what to do. We are there to challenge their thinking and help them make informed decisions,” she said.

She shared that the programme also focuses on helping young people identify the qualities of healthy relationships, such as honesty, trust, respect and commitment.

Payaniandi said many women who visit the centre struggle with a lack of support from families, absent partners and financial difficulties.

He noted that the counsellors from the organisation provide emotional support, parenting guidance and post-abortion or miscarriage counselling where needed.

“Sometimes women just need someone to listen to them in a safe environment where they are not judged,” Payaniandi said.

As an NPO, Hope Ithemba relies heavily on donations from churches, businesses and community members.

The chairperson appealed to the public for support through financial contributions, food donations, baby items and volunteering.

“We want the community to know there is a place where people can come for help and hope,” he said.

The centre is based at 4, second floor, Caray House, off First Avenue and Eighth Street, Springs.

For more information, contact the centre on 011 811 6766 or 073 783 3033 (after hours) or email at admin@hopesprings.co.za