Shelter & Assistance in Family Emergencies, Inc. (S.A.F.E., Inc.) began with a vital conversation in 1979 about the pressing need for a domestic violence advocacy organization in Northeast Mississippi. Recognizing this need, local community members, including one of our founding figures working at Information Place, a referral agency at the time, came together to establish a lifeline for survivors.

Initially named “Aid to Battered Women,” the organization quickly evolved, becoming “Project SAFE” in 1980, and ultimately adopting the name “S.A.F.E., Inc.” as we expanded our mission and reach.

In the early years, community support was crucial. By September 1979, we secured grants and donations from organizations such as the American Association of University Women and the Rotary Club to train volunteers and strengthen our services. By 1981, S.A.F.E., Inc. proudly became a United Way agency.

Throughout the 1980s, significant milestones included installing a Lifeline telephone system in 1982, beginning Rape Crisis Intervention services in 1983 with funding through the Mississippi Health Department, and joining the Mississippi Coalition Against Sexual Assault in the same year. Community fundraising efforts culminated in purchasing our shelter facility in 1986, which was fully paid off by January 1991.

In 1993, substantial grants from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety enabled further expansion of our domestic violence programs, shelter facilities, and comprehensive survivor support services. The ongoing commitment of local and state partners fueled continued growth, allowing us to enhance and diversify our services.

In 2008, recognizing the interconnected challenges faced by survivors, S.A.F.E., Inc. expanded to include rental and utility assistance programs aimed at homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing. By 2010, we further broadened our scope with the establishment of a dedicated housing department, providing intensive case management and supportive services to families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Today, S.A.F.E., Inc. continues its legacy of advocacy, empowerment, and support, dedicated to creating safer communities free from dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. We remain steadfast in our mission to empower survivors and their families through support, advocacy, education, and comprehensive resources.