Shelter Services
Are you feeling like you need a safe place for you and your children to get away from someone who is hurting you? Do you have a friend or loved one that is being hurt and you would like to help them find a safe place? Are you unsure what a shelter is for and what to expect once you get there?
If you decide that you would like more information to help you decide or if you're considering shelter after reading this information then you can call us at our 24 hour toll free number at 1-800-559-2927- one of our advocates will be more than happy to help.
Here's a little about our shelter to help you think about and decide if our shelter is right for you:
Shelter Living
- Our shelter is a very safe and secured building in a quiet neighborhood and its location is kept confidential.
- Caring staff are at shelter day and evening and every other weekend for you to talk to and who will provide you with support as you take the time to think about the direction of your life. They will assist you with creating a plan for the safety of you and your children.
- Staff will routinely help you to acquire resources like housing, childcare, recreation for the children, transportation, healthcare, counseling, legal advocacy, a protection from abuse order and any other needs you may have.
- You will have your own bedroom and your children will share this room with you. The room you are given will come with a bed for each of you. We also have Pac n Plays for infants.
- The shelter is an old huge, Victorian home. On the 1st floor is 1 bedroom, a full kitchen equipped with high chairs and booster seats for childen, 2 large living rooms, a children's play area with numerous toys and games from infant to young teens, and a full handicap bathroom. The 2nd floor has a full bath with 6 bedrooms. In the attic is a clothing boutique with women's and children's clothing. The basement has a laundry room with 2 washers and 2 dryers. The back yard is private and safe with a 10 ft wrap around fence for security with toys and a swing set for children and moms to play. The building is handicap accessible with handicap parking. All rooms are shared living areas except for your bedroom.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Shelter
Can I bring my pet to shelter?
Due to people who suffer allergies we work closely with the SPCA who will hold your pet during your stay at shelter.
Is food provided at shelter?
We provide most food and hygiene products; however, there may be something that you or your children need for dietary reasons or maybe your children will only eat certain foods in which case we will work with you to purchase these items. We do carry necessary products for your baby like diapers, bottles, formula, sippy cups, etc.
Can I have visitors at shelter?
We realize the needed value of visiting with family and friends and will offer you full support to make that realized; however, keeping the location of the shelter confidential is so important for your safety and that of others living there that we ask everyone staying to consider other options for getting this necessary support. Exceptions are for those with needs that would need in home care.
Is there shelter for men?
Yes. Men leaving an abusive situation would be appropriate for Safe Voices services at a motel. After a screening is complete and shelter is deemed appropriate for the person, alternative accommodations will be provided.
What if I live far away from the shelter and my need for shelter is at an odd hour?
We would set you and your children up in a motel that is closest to you and on the next working day assist you to get to our shelter or another shelter.
Moteling
- Moteling is done on a "case-by-case" basis. In any situation where advocates feel it is the best and safest option for that person/family.
- It is important to be aware that in most cases moteling is a short-term service available to an individual or family for no more than 1-2 nights. Exceptions may be made.
Reasons that you may find that this shelter is not for you:
- Can find a safe place elsewhere
- This shelter does not allow the use of un-prescribed drugs and alcohol
- Don't want to leave my home or my animals
- Won't be safe
- I'll hurt myself and others
- Smoking in the shelter isn't accepted
- Can't keep the location of the shelter confidential