Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What is Sand River Recovery Centre?

Accepted Answer

Sand River Recovery Centre is a registered NPO (325-355) offering residential addiction recovery for men in Theunissen, Free State, South Africa. We are a faith-based Christian rehab centre that combines science-backed therapy with a Biblical framework — addressing the whole man: body, mind, and spirit.

Question 2

What is a Christian rehab centre and how is it different from secular rehab?

Accepted Answer

A Christian rehab centre integrates Biblical principles, prayer, scripture, and faith into the recovery process alongside evidence-based therapeutic methods. Unlike secular rehab, we believe that lasting freedom from addiction requires healing at the spiritual level — not just the physical or psychological. Our program builds a new identity in Christ, which gives men a foundation that sustains recovery long after they leave.

Question 3

What addictions does the program treat?

Accepted Answer

We treat a wide range of substance addictions including alcohol, dagga (cannabis), tik (methamphetamine), heroin, cocaine, prescription medication abuse, and other drugs. Our holistic approach addresses the root causes of addiction — not just the symptoms — which means we can help men regardless of the specific substance involved.

Question 4

Is the program only for Christians?

Accepted Answer

Our program is rooted in Christian faith and Biblical principles. We welcome any man who is genuinely willing to engage with the program and its framework, regardless of his current faith background. Many men have come to faith through the program itself.

Question 5

How many men are in the program at one time?

Accepted Answer

We intentionally keep our group small. This allows for a deeply personal, intensive, and intimate program where each man receives individual attention. This is one of the key differences between Sand River and larger institutional rehab centres.

Question 6

How much does addiction rehab cost in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

The Sand River Recovery Centre program costs R42,000 for a minimum 6-month residential stay. This covers all accommodation, meals, counselling, and full program participation. Monthly instalments are available to make the program more accessible.

Question 7

How long is the addiction recovery program?

Accepted Answer

The minimum stay is 6 months. We believe lasting recovery requires time — short-term programs rarely produce lasting results. Many residents choose to stay longer as they continue to grow and consolidate their recovery.

Question 8

What is included in the program fee?

Accepted Answer

The R42,000 program fee covers all accommodation on our farm, all meals, full program participation, individual and group counselling, health monitoring, and aftercare support. There are no hidden costs.

Question 9

Can someone sponsor a man who cannot afford the program?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Financial sponsorship is a vital part of our mission. Individuals, churches, and businesses can sponsor a specific man's program or contribute to our general fund. Contact us at info@sandriverrecovery.org with "Sponsorship" in the subject line, or visit our Get Involved page.

Question 10

How do I apply for the program?

Accepted Answer

You can apply online through our Apply page, or contact us directly by phone or WhatsApp on 083 417 5940. The application process involves completing an application form, obtaining a medical certificate from your doctor, and an intake assessment with our team.

Question 11

What does a typical day look like in the program?

Accepted Answer

Each day includes morning devotionals, group and individual counselling sessions, physical work on the farm, skills development activities, Bible study, and fellowship. The program is intensive and structured — this is intentional, as routine and discipline are key components of recovery.

Question 12

Can family members visit during the program?

Accepted Answer

Family involvement is an important part of the recovery journey. Visits are arranged at appropriate stages of the program. We encourage family engagement as part of the healing process. Contact us to discuss the specifics for your situation.

Question 13

Is the program medically supervised?

Accepted Answer

Sand River Recovery Centre is a faith-based residential program and is NOT a medical facility. We do not provide medical treatment or emergency medical care. All applicants must obtain a medical certificate from a registered doctor confirming they are fit to participate before enrollment.

Question 14

What are the four cornerstones of the program?

Accepted Answer

Our program is built on four cornerstones: Faith (a relationship with God as the foundation of recovery), Identity (discovering who you truly are in Christ), Vision (developing a clear, purposeful future), and Discipline (building the habits and character that sustain freedom). Without any one of these, recovery is incomplete.

Question 15

What happens after the program — is there aftercare?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Aftercare is an essential part of our approach. Recovery does not end at discharge. We provide ongoing counselling, community connection, accountability partnerships, and practical support with reintegration into work and family life.

Question 16

What is the success rate of the program?

Accepted Answer

Long-term recovery depends on many factors, including the individual's commitment and the support they receive after the program. We believe our holistic, faith-based approach — combined with a longer minimum stay and genuine community — produces more lasting results than short-term programs. We encourage you to read our testimonials from men who have completed the program.

Question 17

Can I refer someone who needs help?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. If you know someone who needs help, contact us directly or visit our Get Involved page. If they cannot afford the program, we can work with you to find sponsorship. Email us at info@sandriverrecovery.org with "Referral" in the subject line.

Question 18

What is a faith-based recovery programme in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

A faith-based recovery programme integrates Christian principles — prayer, scripture, worship, and a relationship with God — into every aspect of the recovery process. At Sand River Recovery Centre, faith is not an add-on; it is the foundation. We believe that lasting freedom from addiction requires healing at the spiritual level, not just the physical or psychological. Our programme gives men a new identity in Christ, which sustains recovery long after they leave.

Question 19

Is Sand River Recovery Centre a faith-based rehab in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sand River Recovery Centre is one of South Africa's dedicated faith-based residential recovery programmes for men. Located on a working farm in Theunissen, Free State, our programme combines Biblical teaching, counselling, physical work, and community — all within a Christian framework. We welcome men from any background who are willing to engage with the programme.

Question 20

How long should a residential rehab programme be in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Research consistently shows that longer treatment stays produce better long-term outcomes. At Sand River Recovery Centre, our minimum stay is 6 months. This is intentional — short-term programmes of 28 or 30 days rarely produce lasting results because they do not allow enough time to address the root causes of addiction, build new habits, and establish a stable identity. Our 6-month residential programme gives men the time they need to truly change.

Question 21

Is there an affordable rehab option in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Sand River Recovery Centre charges R42,000 for a full 6-month residential programme — which works out to R7,000 per month, covering all accommodation, meals, counselling, and programme participation. This is significantly more affordable than many private rehab facilities. Monthly payment instalments are available. We also offer sponsorship opportunities for men who cannot afford the programme — individuals, churches, and businesses can sponsor a man's recovery. Contact us at info@sandriverrecovery.org to discuss options.

Question 22

What makes Sand River Recovery Centre different from other rehabs in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Several things set us apart: (1) We are a genuine faith-based Christian programme — not just a secular rehab with a chapel. (2) Our minimum stay is 6 months, giving men the time real change requires. (3) We are intentionally small, so every man receives personal attention. (4) We are located on a working farm in the Free State, providing a peaceful, distraction-free environment. (5) Our programme addresses the whole man — body, mind, and spirit — through four cornerstones: Faith, Identity, Vision, and Discipline.

Question 23

Where is Sand River Recovery Centre located?

Accepted Answer

We are located on Farm Dayton, Theunissen, Free State, South Africa (postal code 9610). The peaceful farm setting provides a distraction-free environment ideal for deep recovery work, away from the triggers and pressures of everyday life.

Question 24

How do I contact Sand River Recovery Centre?

Accepted Answer

You can reach us by phone or WhatsApp on 083 417 5940, or by email at info@sandriverrecovery.org. You can also use the contact form on our Contact page. We are here to help — do not hesitate to reach out.

Question 25

Is Sand River Recovery Centre a registered NPO?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sand River Recovery Centre is a registered Non-Profit Organisation (NPO: 325-355) and Non-Profit Company (NPC: 2022/599569/08), registered in South Africa.

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