From crisis to community: House of Peace transforms lives in the north

In 2014, amid personal financial turmoil and the threat of losing his home, Renier van der Westhuizen made a heartfelt promise to God.

If his family home was saved from foreclosure, he vowed to open his doors to those in need.

With a providential donation from a friend, Van der Westhuizen honoured his promise, founding the House of Peace shelter.

He said what began as a personal pledge transformed into a beacon of hope for many in Pretoria North facing financial difficulties, substance abuse and other challenges.

Over the past decade, the mission and vision of the House of Peace have evolved significantly.

“Initially focusing on providing immediate relief such as accommodation, food, and clothing, the shelter now emphasises long-term assistance.

The organisation strives to empower residents to become self-sufficient, offering rehabilitation, skills development, and job placement services.

“The vision is clear: to help individuals reintegrate into society with dignity and to foster a drug-free environment in Pretoria North,” he said.

He mentioned that starting the shelter was fraught with challenges.

“Financial constraints, resource scarcity and establishing credibility within the community were significant hurdles.

“Through unwavering faith, community outreach, and generous donations, these obstacles were overcome and I can say the support from family and friends played a crucial role in surmounting these early difficulties.”

Since its inception, the House of Peace has seen remarkable growth.

Pre-Covid, the shelter accommodated 39 people; today, it supports over 80 residents.

The shelter has not only expanded its capacity but also its programmes.

“Milestones include launching an old-age home centre and plans for a children’s home.”

Additionally, community outreach initiatives like a youth boxing club have extended the shelter’s impact beyond its walls.

“The Open Arms Project, which distributes excess food and clothing to neighbouring shelters and communities, now assists about 3 400 people weekly,” he said.

The shelter’s daily operations involve a comprehensive support system for its residents.

Van der Westhuizen said a typical day includes meals, church services, meetings, work assignments, counselling and recreational activities – all designed to support physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

“The shelter relies heavily on donations from individuals, businesses and other organisations to maintain its operations.

“Local support has been instrumental, with contributions like food, clothing, and financial donations helping to sustain and expand the shelter’s programmes.”

He also mentioned the House of Peace maintains a strict no-tolerance policy towards drugs and alcohol to ensure a safe environment.

The shelter conducts regular checks, drug testing, and peer support systems to help enforce these rules.

Van der Westhuizen added that for residents struggling with addiction, the intake process includes personalised assessments and tailored rehabilitation programmes.

“The shelter’s goal is to help each resident overcome barriers and successfully transition back into society.”

The shelter is proud of numerous success stories because, Piet, a former heroin addict who once consumed 12 bags a day, has been clean for six years. He is now married with a four-year-old daughter and serves as a leader at the shelter.

“Another resident has relocated to Missouri, USA, and is happily married, while another runs her own house cleaning business. These stories exemplify the transformative impact of the House of Peace.”

Van der Westhuizen said the shelter faces ongoing challenges, including the need to expand facilities to accommodate more people.

“With around 25 inquiries daily and local shelters reaching full capacity, the shelter is forced to turn some individuals away and reliance on donations, especially for food, poses a challenge,” he said.

To ensure long-term sustainability, the House of Peace is focusing on building strategic partnerships, expanding its donor network, and exploring grant funding opportunities.

“Improving operational efficiency, implementing cost-saving measures, and adapting programmes to meet community needs are also key strategies for maintaining and growing the shelter’s impact.”

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