Frequently Asked Questions

---

Volunteering at Lighthouse-Ermelo is more than just contributing your time and effort; it’s an opportunity to live out your faith in action, share God’s love, and make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

As a person, volunteering at Lighthouse-Ermelo allows you to connect with the community, offer your unique skills, and grow in empathy and understanding. It is a chance to work alongside others with shared values, build meaningful relationships, and gain a deeper appreciation for the power of collective effort. Whether you’re helping with practical tasks, mentoring someone in need, or simply being a listening ear, every contribution matters and creates a ripple effect of positive change.

As a Christian, volunteering at Lighthouse-Ermelo embodies the essence of serving as Christ did—with humility, compassion, and selflessness. It’s an act of obedience to the call to love your neighbour and reflect God’s grace through your actions. By offering your time and talents, you participate in God’s mission to bring hope, healing, and restoration to the community. Volunteering here is also a spiritual journey, as you witness God’s work through everyday interactions, grow in faith, and find joy in serving others as part of the body of Christ.

In every role you take, big or small, volunteering at Lighthouse-Ermelo is a way to shine light into the world and be a vessel of God’s love and kindness.

Contact us directly to confirm our current needs, as priorities may change. 

We appreciate donation drop-offs  at our physical address  or  EFT contributions. 

Your generosity can make a significant impact in supporting our mission and the community we serve.

The specific donations needed at Lighthouse-Ermelo may vary based on current projects and community needs. However, here is a general list of items that are often in demand to support our work effectively:

1.   Food and Groceries for the Soup Kitchen

• Non-perishable food items (e.g., canned goods, pasta, rice, and dried beans).
• Cooking oil, sugar, salt, and spices.
• Fresh produce (if possible).
• Usuthu / Fine maize

2.   Clothing and Accessories for the Clothing Bank

• Gently used or new clothing for all ages (men, women, and      children).
• Shoes, socks, and undergarments.
• Winter wear: jackets, scarves, gloves, and hats.

3.   Hygiene Products for the Shower Facilities

• Soap, shampoo, and conditioner.
• Toothpaste, toothbrushes, and deodorant.
• Sanitary pads, tampons
• Cleaning supplies and laundry detergent

4.   General Items

• Bedding: blankets, sleeping bags.
• Towels and washcloths.
• Pots, pans, and dishes.

5.   Office & Groupwork Supplies

• Notebooks, pens, pencils, paper, files, markers, etc.

6.   Financial Contributions

• Monetary donations for operational costs or specific programs.
• Gift cards for grocery stores or clothing retailers e.g. Takealot or Game Store vouchers

7.   Special Project Needs

• Maintenance materials or tools for renovation or maintenance projects.
• Gardening supplies for community garden initiatives.
• Electronics, such as laptops or tablets, for training or administration.

The application process for rehabilitation at a South African State rehabilitation centre typically involves several steps, designed to assess the individual's needs, eligibility, and readiness for treatment. While the exact process may vary between the relevant provinces or specific rehabilitation centres, here’s a general outline of what you can expect when applying for rehabilitation at a state facility through LHE:

1.   Initial Assessment and Referral

• Self-Referral or Referral by a Health Professional: You can apply for treatment at a state rehabilitation centre  either on your own or be referred by a healthcare professional (doctor,   counselor, social worker) if you or someone else is struggling with      substance abuse. 
• At LHE the social worker (SW) and social auxiliary worker (SAW) will work with you to start your application, and explain the process.
• Government Health Services: In South Africa, state rehabilitation centres typically fall under the  Department of Health or provincial health services. To access treatment,  you often need to contact the local clinic or health department. 
• At LHE, clients have immediate access to the SW who will start the application process with them.

2.   Eligibility Criteria

• Residency Requirements:  Generally, rehabilitation centres prioritize residents of the province or local area.
• Substance Abuse Assessment: There  must be evidence that the person requires rehabilitation for substance  abuse. Some centres may only treat specific substances (e.g., alcohol,  drugs).
• Financial Need: As  state facilities are funded by the government, many centres provide  treatment at no or low cost, but there may still be a need to assess  whether the individual qualifies for free treatment based on income or financial status.

3.   Documentation and Application

• Required Documents: You  may need to submit personal information, including your ID (or proof of residence), medical records, and any referrals from healthcare providers.
• Application Form: The specific rehabilitation centre may require you to fill out an application form, detailing your history with substance abuse, any prior treatment,  and other medical or mental health issues.
• At LHE the SW will assist you step by step through the process.

4.   Screening and Intake

• Screening for Substance Abuse: The individual applying will undergo a screening process to assess the severity of their addiction. This may include an interview, medical  examination, and psychological assessment.
• Screening is done by the LHE’s social worker.
• Detoxification Needs: If  detoxification (detox) is required before entering the rehabilitation  program, this will be assessed during the intake process. In some cases,  detox may happen in a separate facility like Ermelo Provincial Hospital and  then the person will be transported to a rehabilitation centre once the acute withdrawal phase is completed.

5.   Treatment Planning

• After the screening, a treatment plan will be developed based on      the individual’s specific needs. This plan may include inpatient      (residential) or outpatient services.
• Inpatient Rehabilitation: For more severe addictions, the person may need to stay in the facility for an extended period (usually 3 to 6 months) to receive intensive therapy.
• Outpatient Rehabilitation: If  appropriate, the person may receive treatment on an outpatient basis,  meaning they can continue living at home but attend regular therapy and support sessions.

6.   Waiting List

• Availability of Spaces: Due to the demand for services, many state rehabilitation centres have waiting lists. In some cases, individuals may need to wait for a bed or place in the program.
• Urgency of Treatment: If the case is urgent, some centres may prioritize individuals based on the severity of their addiction or need for immediate care.

7.   Admission to the Programme

• Orientation and Agreement: Once  admitted, individuals usually attend an orientation session where they are briefed about the rehabilitation process, rules of the facility, and  expected behavior during their stay.
• Commitment to Treatment: The individual will be asked to commit to the rehabilitation process, which  may include participating in therapy sessions, support groups, and other recovery activities.

8.   Aftercare and Reintegration

• Post-Rehabilitation Support: Upon  completion of the program, the individual may be referred to aftercare services or outpatient support programs to help with reintegration into  society.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Some state facilities may provide ongoing counseling or support to ensure long-term recovery.

9.   How to Apply:

• Contact your Local Clinic or Provincial Health Department: Most applications begin with a local government clinic or community health service. They will refer you to the appropriate      rehabilitation centre.
• Online Services:  Some provinces may have online platforms or dedicated helplines for addiction services, which you can access to inquire about the process.
• Healthcare Providers:   Doctors or social workers can also assist with referrals to state rehabilitation centres.
• LHE is fully equipped to provide outpatient rehabilitation services  as well as applying for rehabilitation centres through the LHE social worker.
   

** Please make an appointment to see the social worker
 

Important Considerations:

• Confidentiality:  LHE & State rehabilitation centres generally prioritize confidentiality and privacy for their patients.
• Costs and Subsidies: While most state rehab centres are free or low-cost, there may be certain  expenses for specialized services or medication, so it's important to  clarify these during the application process.
• Support Networks:   Families or support systems may also be involved in the process, with  counseling or educational services offered to loved ones.

For specific centres, it's recommended to contact local authorities or provincial health departments to get more detailed and updated information on the application process.

Recognizing the tell-tale signs of behavioral addiction and substance abuse is crucial for early intervention and support. While they may vary between individuals, some common warning signs include the following:

BEHAVIORAL ADDICTION

Behavioral addiction involves an unhealthy and compulsive reliance on certain activities or behaviors, such as gambling, gaming, shopping, or social media use. Signs include:

1.   Preoccupation with the Behavior

• Thinking about it constantly or planning the next opportunity to  engage in it.
• Neglecting responsibilities or relationships to focus on the  activity.

2.   Loss of Control

• Inability to cut back or stop the behavior despite repeated  attempts.
• Engaging in the activity for longer or more frequently than  intended.

3.   Tolerance and Escalation

• Needing more intense or frequent involvement in the behavior to       feel satisfied.
• Increasing risk or intensity to achieve the same level of  enjoyment.

4.   Negative Impact on Life

• Financial, social, or emotional problems arising from the  behavior.
• Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships or fulfilling  obligations.

5.   Emotional Withdrawal

• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to engage in       the activity.

    

SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Substance abuse involves the misuse of alcohol, drugs, or other substances, leading to physical, mental, and social harm. Common signs include:

1.   Physical Changes

• Bloodshot eyes, changes in pupil size, or unexplained weight  loss/gain.
• Frequent nosebleeds, tremors, or deteriorating personal hygiene.
• Slurred speech, poor coordination, or unusual body odors.

2.   Behavioral Changes

• Secretive or suspicious behavior, such as lying or hiding  substances.
• Sudden changes in friend groups or activities.
• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home.

3.   Mood and Emotional Instability

• Extreme mood swings, irritability, or outbursts of anger.
• Periods of hyperactivity followed by lethargy or depression.

4.   Cravings and Dependence

• Strong urges to use the substance, even in inappropriate or risky  situations.
• Building tolerance, needing larger doses for the same effect.

5.   Withdrawal Symptoms

• Experiencing physical or psychological symptoms when not using,  such as nausea, sweating, anxiety, or insomnia.

6.   Negative Consequences

• Legal, financial, or relational issues directly tied to substance   use.
• Continued use despite awareness of harm to health or life  circumstances.

    

GENERAL RED FLAGS

• Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family, and  activities that were once enjoyable.
• Denial: Refusing to acknowledge the problem or minimizing its severity.
• Risk-Taking:   Engaging in dangerous behaviors to satisfy cravings or compulsions.

If you or someone you know exhibits these signs, seeking professional help is essential.  Early support from counselors, therapists, or support groups can make a significant difference.

Aftercare services are provided by the Social Worker and Social Auxiliary Worker,  based on the progress and process the person has been through. Support groups and individual sessions with the person and family members will continue until the person is fully integrated and restored back to society.

See our Intervention Services page for more information

Learn more about Project Exodus by visiting their website:    www.projectexodus.net