Safehome: Here to Help Women Escape Abuse and Rebuild
“Love shouldn’t hurt.”
This is one of the many mantras that Safehome, a domestic violence agency based in Overland Park, Kansas, uses to raise awareness about intimate partner abuse. As the only domestic violence agency serving Johnson and Miami counties, and the largest in the state of Kansas, Safehome operates as a safe haven for individuals who are escaping abusive relationships. Their core purpose is to provide a healing atmosphere in which survivors and their children can gain inner strength, explore options, and be empowered to rebuild.
2020 brought unprecedented challenges to the entire globe, including Safehome and the clients they serve. Offering free services to those experiencing abuse became more important than ever while we faced a pandemic within the already existing pandemic of domestic violence. From a 24-hour hotline and shelter to therapy and legal assistance, they continued to provide vital help to the community, quickly pivoting and adapting to a new normal. “Oftentimes, the survivors that stay in our shelter arrive in the middle of the night with nothing but their children and the clothes on their back,” said Safehome President and CEO Heidi Wooten. “From that point, with the support from our community, we are able to provide them with everything they need to start a new life that’s free from violence.”
One of Safehome’s guiding principles is abundance; the belief that the clients they serve deserve the very best. While in shelter, families are provided with quality clothing, new pillows and bedding, toys, household items and much more. They work to ensure that holidays and birthdays are special, despite clients’ difficult circumstances. Through the Be the Love with Safehome initiative, Safehome invites the community to help support their clients as they rebuild and, in many cases, achieve independence for the first time. You can Be the Love in so many ways. One option is by donating pre-paid Visa cards, gift cards and monetary donations to offer survivors vital support while empowering them with the freedom of choice. Get in on all of the love by visiting safehome-ks.org/be-the-love.
You are not alone! If you are in an abusive relationship, please call Safehome’s 24-hour hotline, (913) 262-2868. You do not have to live in Safehome’s shelter to access their free services, including shelter, therapy, legal assistance and safety planning. Visit safehome-ks.org for more information about services, volunteering, events, sponsorships and more. Stay connected on social media @safehomeks. ■
