The Sahara Shelter

Providing Sanctuary and Support for Abused Women and Children

The Sahara Shelter offers refuge and support for abused women and children, providing 24-hour short-term accommodation in a caring environment.

Staff deliver housekeeping and social work services, guiding women through their rights and protection orders. Empowerment programs teach skills like beadwork and sewing for income generation and healing.

Family counseling addresses abusive dynamics, while partnerships with SAPS, Department of Social Development and other stake holders ensure accessible admission, making Sahara a vital sanctuary in the fight against domestic violence.

Open 24/7/365 for emergency shelter.

Admissions are facilitated through SAPS or local Child Welfare offices.

3 dedicated house mothers rotate shifts to ensure continuous care and support.

Full 24-hour security in partnership with SAPS Phoenix.

Upon admission

Clients are introduced to a qualified social worker.

A personalised care plan is created.

Women receive guidance on legal rights, protection orders, and counselling.

Support includes family reunification and social work interventions.

Skills Development

Beyond safety, Sahara empowers women with practical skills

Cooking & Baking

Sewing & Textile Design

Beadwork

Fabric Painting

These workshops are run by skilled facilitators, helping survivors regain confidence and pursue income-generating opportunities.

Sahara Women’s Group

This dynamic group supports the shelter by:

Hosting fundraisers (e.g. R12,250 raised during October 2013 High Tea)

Providing skills training in sewing, cooking, and beadwork

Uplifting and mentoring fellow survivors

Shelter Expansion – Afrisun Support

Thanks to a R1.3 million grant from Afrisun KZN Community Development Trust and an additional R600,000 raised by Phoenix Child Welfare, the shelter has:

Expanded from 12 to 22 beds

Run workshops or pamper sessions

How You Can Help Sahara

Your support makes a real impact. Here’s how you can contribute:

Volunteer

Stimulate and play with children

Run workshops or pamper sessions

Offer mentorship or counselling

Sponsor & Donate

Sponsor a meal

Donate care packs, groceries, or school items

Adopt a room

Assist with building or garden maintenance

Share your skills or host fundraisers

Wishlist

Linen & Bedding

Beds, Sheets, Blankets, Duvets, Towels, Curtains, Carpets

Toiletries

Shampoo, Toothpaste, Deodorant, Bath Soap, Lotion, Sanitary Pads, Nail Clippers, Hand Wash

Donate Today

Every contribution helps restore dignity and safety to a woman in crisis.

Bank Details:

• Bank: Standard Bank
• Branch: Briardene
• Account Name: Phoenix Child and Family Welfare Society – Sahara Account
• Account No.: 052409015
• Branch Code: 043626
• Type: Current Account
• Reference: Use your name

📞 For more info, call 031 500 3671

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💬 Let’s Build a Safer Future Together

Your donation is tax-deductible and helps transform the lives of countless women and children escaping violence.