Safe Harbor, Inc. :: A Safe Home, When Home Isn't Safe

Brief History of Safe Harbor, Inc.

In late 1978, after efforts from a broad-based community task force, the shelter for battered women and their children was established under the auspices of the Family Counseling Center of Greenville, Inc. with funding from the community and the Department of Social Services. In 1994, Family Counseling Center announced its intention to transition out of the provision of residential services and asked for organizations that were interested in continuing the shelter to step forward. It was at that time a "grass roots" effort was begun to insure the continuation of shelter services and Safe Harbor, Inc. was born.

Safe Harbor, Inc. is a private, non-profit agency founded in 1994 specifically to provide services tovictims of domestic violence and their children.On July 1, 1995, Safe Harbor, Inc. assumed responsibility for the shelter from Family Counseling Center.

In 2002, Safe Harbor, Inc. received a donation of a home in Anderson County to be converted into a second shelter. Safe Harbor II opened its doors February 27, 2003.

Safe Harbor, Inc. provides a 24-hour a day, 7 day a week, year round crisis line and emergency safe shelter for victims of domestic abuse. Professional counselors, paraprofessionals, and trainedvolunteers provide direct assessment, support, counseling, and case management to assist thesevictims of violent crime with relocation, employment, and other professional services as needed during their residency at the shelter. Other Safe Harbor services include victim advocacy for clients going through family court, hospital emergency room victim services, and educational programs in Greenville County high schools that teach students about domestic violence and promote healthy dating relationships. Speakers are also available for any church or civic group interested in learning more about domestic violence. Safe Harbor also maintains a group of volunteers who provide many client services and outreach into our community.

Safe Harbor, Inc. currently employs 15 full time staff, and part time staff as needed. We have over 200 volunteers. Our funding sources include the United Way, government contracts and grants, and community donations. The shelters generate no revenue through fee for service, therefore, volunteer and community support are needed for the existence of this service.