Ebenezer Psychiatric Home is a registered non-profit organisation providing residential care, support and rehabilitation for adults living with severe mental illness, primarily Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.

Founded in March 2005 by Charmaine Hennings under the guidance of Dr H. E. Haynes, Ebenezer was established in response to a growing need for safe, supportive residential care for adults who could no longer live independently but did not require institutional care.

Following the demand for our services, a second home was opened in 2006. Today, Ebenezer operates from two adjoining homes and a spacious flatlet in a quiet residential area of Witpoortjie, Gauteng.

Our homes provide a safe, caring and homely environment where residents are supported to develop independence, confidence and life skills while remaining connected to their community.

Who We Care For

We support adults between the ages of 23 and 55 living with severe mental illness, primarily Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia. Many of our residents have previously experienced hospitalisation or institutional care.

Our focus is not simply on providing accommodation. We aim to help each resident regain a sense of purpose, dignity and belonging, while developing the skills needed to participate as independently as possible in everyday life.

Where appropriate and when a resident is ready, we also encourage and support opportunities for employment, community involvement and greater independence.

Our Approach

At Ebenezer, we believe that a person is more than their diagnosis.

We are a small, family-style home where residents are known as individuals and treated with dignity, respect and compassion. We encourage residents to take responsibility for themselves and contribute to the running of the home, helping them build confidence, independence and a sense of achievement.

Our goal is to create an environment where residents feel safe, valued, included and capable.

We believe recovery and rehabilitation are not only about managing an illness. They are also about learning, growing, building relationships, discovering strengths and finding purpose in everyday life.

Life at Ebenezer

Life at Ebenezer is structured around a balance of responsibility, rehabilitation, social interaction and leisure.

Residents participate in a daily programme that includes:

Residents are encouraged to participate according to their individual abilities and needs.

Our days are structured, but our environment remains relaxed, personal and homely.

Our Workshops & Programmes

Our workshops are designed to encourage creativity, concentration, confidence, social interaction and practical life skills.

Activities include:

Educational discussions around mental health and medication

We also invite professionals and community members to share their

knowledge and skills with our residents.

Health & Professional Support

The wellbeing of our residents is supported through a combination of residential care and professional services.

Depending on individual needs, residents have access to psychiatric care, occupational therapy, counselling and other appropriate professional support.

We also encourage residents to understand their conditions, recognise their own strengths and develop practical strategies for managing their mental health.

Beyond the Home

Community participation is an important part of life at Ebenezer.

Residents take part in walks, exercise, sport, swimming, social activities, games, braais, music evenings, outings and community events.

These activities provide opportunities for residents to build confidence, maintain social connections and experience the same enjoyment and participation in community life that everyone deserves.

Our Homes

Ebenezer operates from two adjoining homes and a large flatlet situated in a peaceful residential area of Witpoortjie.

The property provides residents with shared bedrooms, comfortable communal living areas,

dining facilities, kitchens, gardens a swimming pool and space for workshops and activities.

We are a home — not an institution.

Our Commitment is Simple:

To provide a safe place where adults living with severe mental illness can be treated with dignity, encouraged to grow, and supported to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.

We want every resident to know that their diagnosis does not define who they are or what they are capable of achieving.

Funding & Community Support

As a non-profit organisation, Ebenezer relies on a combination of government support, resident contributions, fundraising and donations to maintain our homes and provide the level of care our residents need.

The rising cost of food, utilities, transport, healthcare, maintenance and everyday operating expenses continues to place significant pressure on our resources.

Our fundraising initiatives and community partnerships therefore play an essential role in keeping Ebenezer running and ensuring that our residents continue to receive the care, support and opportunities they deserve.

Every contribution — whether financial, practical or through volunteering — helps us make a difference.

Help Us Keep Ebenezer a Home

Mental illness can affect any family, any workplace and any community.

At Ebenezer, we believe that no one should be defined by their diagnosis or left without a place to belong.

Together, we can create a community where mental health is understood, dignity is protected and every person has the opportunity to live a meaningful life.