Mission
S.A.F.E. Place exists to provide safety to empower and advocate for victims of domestic violence and sex trafficking and their families.
S.A.F.E. Place envisions a future where all people enjoy the right to safe, healthy relationships.
Philosophy
S.A.F.E. Place believes that people are best able to make their own choices leading to the safest outcomes for their unique situation. Staff encourages survivors to explore their choices while learning of new resources. In doing so survivors become confident and empowered. Staff always remain non-judgmental when working with survivors because we realize each person's life should be self-determined.
The programs offered are voluntary and free of charge. A survivor may choose to participate in any, all, or none of the programs. Survivors may change their minds whenever they would like to and can be assured that their values, lifestyles, and life choices will be honored.
History
In 1979, Family and Children's Services of Battle Creek opened the first shelter for victims of domestic violence in Calhoun County. About a year later, it was closed due to insufficient funds.
A S.A.F.E. Place Board of Directors was organized in 1981, and the Miller Foundation donated a building. After hundreds of volunteered hours were spent cleaning and furnishing the shelter, S.A.F.E. Place opened on September 6, 1983. The original shelter had a capacity of only 18 beds. In 1988, 224 women and 414 children were served at the agency, but another 142 women and 318 children were turned away because the shelter was full.
On January 19, 1989, S.A.F.E. Place moved into its newly renovated facility with 54 beds. Financial support from foundations, State and Federal Government agencies, individuals, businesses, service clubs, and church groups enabled the organization to acquire and renovate this new facility.
S.A.F.E. Place continues to provide temporary shelter, crisis intervention services, including counseling, advocacy, and public education in, but not limited to, Calhoun, Barry, and Eaton Counties.