St. Anne's Homes

St Anne's Homes has been a place of safety and renewal for women and children in crisis for over 120 years, founded in 1904. One of the oldest welfare organisations in Cape Town, they provide a free, faith-inspired refuge for women who are pregnant, homeless, destitute, or survivors of abuse — and their children. At St Anne's, you are more than a person in crisis. You are someone with worth, potential, and a future.

Their mission is rooted in empowerment — not charity. They believe every woman, regardless of how she arrived at their door, has the capacity to become independent, confident, and self-sufficient.

They welcome women across all backgrounds, races, and beliefs.

What They Offer Survivors

Safe Residential Shelter St Anne's Homes provides a free, secure residential shelter for women and their children — particularly those who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, or are homeless and pregnant. Children are welcome, including boys up to school-going age. The exact address is shared privately to protect residents' safety.

Professional Counselling and Psychosocial Support Social workers and counsellors provide ongoing individual support — helping you process trauma, build emotional resilience, and work through the complex feelings that come after leaving an abusive situation. St Anne's partners with external organisations such as Rape Crisis for specialist trauma counselling where needed.

Holistic Self-Empowerment Programme St Anne's runs a structured empowerment programme that develops personal, social, creative, and vocational skills. The goal is for every woman to leave with greater confidence, capabilities, and tools to build a stable life — free from dependency and fear.

Skills Development and Vocational Training Practical skills training helps women access employment and build economic independence — addressing one of the most significant barriers that keeps women trapped in dangerous situations.

Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Education Children at St Anne's are supported through an on-site ECD practitioner and education support, ensuring their wellbeing and development is not disrupted during the family's time of crisis.

Support for Pregnant Women St Anne's specifically welcomes women in their third trimester of pregnancy — providing a safe, supported environment to give birth and begin their new chapter.

National Shelter Helpline Access St Anne's is part of the National Shelter Movement. Their toll-free helpline (0800 001 005) is available 24 hours a day and can connect you to shelter support across South Africa.

All services are FREE. If you need help immediately, call the 24-hour toll-free line: 0800 001 005, or WhatsApp: 082 057 8600.