Letter from Our Executive Director

Friends,

One day this summer, in the midst of budget cuts, grant revisions, United Way campaigns, and committee meetings, I received a phone call.  A woman whom I will call “Betsy” introduced herself and stated that she had stayed at the shelter with her 7-month-old daughter for 2 months in 1994.  She called me that day because she had spoken to a recent resident of the shelter who told her that Safe Harbor now had “programs”—not just shelter.  When I explained to her that we have children’s counseling, two community groups, 3 community counselors, a legal advocate, a shelter in Anderson as well as Greenville (with a third being considered in Oconee county), a transitional housing program, a prevention program in our high schools and a community-wide communication/advocacy effort, I could hear her beginning to cry.  She quietly said, “Thank God”.  She explained that, in 1994, she had made it out and stayed out of her abusive situation, but the barriers were enormous and the resources were few. 

“Betsy” described her experience in 1994, walking through our door with her infant daughter in tow and being met by a Safe Harbor staff person (whose name she will never forget) who looked her straight in the eye and said, “You are safe now”.  Can one person make a difference?  “Betsy” thinks so.  She thanks God for this staff person every night.  She credits Safe Harbor for saving her life that day and for helping her to find a new life. 

How many “Betsys” are out there...quietly thanking God for you…that one person who reached out to a hurt, tired, and confused victim?   Fifteen years later, we have many more resources to offer victims of domestic violence, and we are working to break down barriers.  We can now reach more victims and provide more services than in 1994. But, we cannot do it without you.  Thank you for your volunteerism, your partnership, and your financial support.  We need it now more than ever. 

Your support changes lives.  Just ask “Betsy”. 

Peace to you,

Becky Callaham
Executive Director, Safe Harbor