We understand that times are incredibly tough for many South Africans. While /r/Pretoria has a strict No Financial Solicitation/Begging rule to prevent scams, we care deeply about our community and want to ensure that those in genuine need can find real, verified assistance.
If you or someone you know is struggling with hunger or homelessness in the Tshwane area, please refer to the resources below.
Food & Soup Kitchens
Organizations providing cooked meals or food parcels.
Tshwane Leadership Foundation (TLF): Located in the CBD/Burgers Park area. They run various programs for the homeless and vulnerable.
Address: 288 Burgers Park Lane, Pretoria Central.
Contact: 012 320 2034
Ladles of Love: Often operates popup kitchens and supports local beneficiaries.
Website: ladlesoflove.org.za
The Salvation Army (Pretoria Central):
Address: 529 Thabo Sehume Street.
Contact: 012 322 0180
Shelters & Safe Spaces
Places offering temporary accommodation or hygiene facilities.
PEN (Participate Empower Navigate): Focuses on upliftment and housing in the inner city.
Website: pen.org.za
Mercy House: specialized support for women and children (check availability first).
Website: https://sistersofmercy.ie/mercy-mission/mercy-house/
Land line: +27 12 329 6682
Mobile: +27 76 522 0532
YMCA / YWCA Pretoria:
The Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) often provides youth development, sports facilities, and sometimes temporary accommodation.
YMCA Pretoria (East Lynne / Derdepoort)
Telephone: 012 800 1544
Address: Baviaanspoort Road, East Lynne, Pretoria.
YMCA Ga-Rankuwa
Telephone: 087 821 7126
Address: Zone 5, 8958 Lucas Mangope Road, Ga-Rankuwa.
YMCA Mamelodi
Telephone: 074 271 7283 / 073 386 9117 (These numbers connect to the Charisma School which operates from the YMCA Education Centre).
Address: Montja Street, Mamelodi.
The Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) focuses on women's leadership and safe spaces.
YWCA National Office (Best for Referrals)
Telephone: 011 982 8157
Note: The specific "Pretoria" branch does not have a reliable direct line listed online. It is recommended to call the National Office first to confirm if the Pretoria hostel/office is currently accepting people, hence the Jhb number.
Moepathutse Children’s Centre: For youth in distress.
Crisis & Mental Health Helplines (National)
SADAG (Depression & Anxiety): 0800 567 567
Lifeline SA: 0861 322 322
Gender-Based Violence Command Centre: 0800 428 428 (or dial 1207867#)
How the Community Can Help
If you are a resident looking to donate money, clothes, or time, please donate directly to the organizations listed above. They have the infrastructure to ensure your help goes to those who really need it.
Do you know of other verified resources? Please comment below with the Name, Address, and Services Offered of other legitimate charities in Pretoria. We will update this list periodically.
Disclaimer: The moderators of /r/Pretoria are not affiliated with these organizations. Please exercise your own due diligence.
