Letter to Editor – December 2011

Three weeks ago, SAFE Shelter was forced to close its doors for the first time in 31 years. A broken sprinkler in an upstairs bedroom flooded the shelter, requiring us to find alternative housing for our 45 residents and their children.

However, despite this temporary setback, we are still providing services to victims of domestic violence and their children. The crisis line (629-8888) is being manned 24-hours a day and anyone who is suffering at the hands of an abusive partner can call and we will help.

And we are going to have Christmas! Our Adopt-a-Family Program is underway and we will provide a beautiful holiday for our clients and their children.

Prior to 1980, there were no shelters in Savannah dedicated to victims of domestic violence. Having a safe place to go when there is violence in the home is critical in saving lives. Despite the clean up and reconstruction, SAFE Shelter will continue to shelter and provide emergency services. No fees are charged for any shelter services and all it takes is a phone call to start breaking the cycle of violence.

For more information on shelter services, Adopt-a-Family or for emergency assistance, please call 629-8888.

Sincerely yours,

Cheryl Haven Branch

Executive Director

SAFE Shelter