Posted on September 21, 2017
NEW LONDON – Yesterday State Representative Holly Cheeseman (R-37) toured and sat down with officials from New London’s Safe Futures Emergency Shelter and Transitional Living Program – one of only 4 such programs in the state – for families working to rebuild lives shattered by domestic violence or sexual assault.
“Safe Futures has been in operation for 40 years – what an incredible accomplishment,” said Rep. Cheeseman. “They have helped countless victims over the years, and I could not imagine how our communities might be struggling without the help of such caring and selfless people. That’s why it’s especially important now to do what we can to help keep their programs and shelters open and running. Connecticut’s ongoing fiscal crisis has led to a lot of uncertainty regarding how they will continue to receive the funding they need to support their residents and clients. I would therefore like to let my constituents know that the organization is hosting a Power of Purple 4K Walk on October 15th at Crystal Mall in Waterford – please join if you can! If you are unable to participate in the walk, there is an option to donate, any amount no matter how small, to the cause. Thank you.”
Founded in 1976 as the Women’s Center of Southeastern Connecticut, Safe Futures began as an information and referral service for women entering the workforce. When a rape crisis hotline was added to the services offered, it soon became clear that the perpetrators of the assaults were men the callers knew – their husbands and boyfriends. This realization lead to the opening of several safe houses, and eventually a permanent emergency shelter in 1978. As demand for the Women’s Center’s services grew, so did its programs and expertise in the field of domestic violence. In 2012, the Women’s Center changed its name to Safe Futures to better reflect those being served by the agency as well as its full scope of programs.
Today, Safe Futures operates two 24-hour hotlines and has a full service donation center. In partnership with the Norwich Police Department, the organization provides more than 9,000 individuals each year with legal assistance, counseling and advocacy, case management, support groups, and educational programs for schools and community groups. All 21 towns in New London County are served by the agency.
Safe Futures is also part of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV). Safe Futures is funded in part by the State of Connecticut’s Departments of Social Service, Mental Health and Addiction Services, and Office of Victim Services, Judicial Branch.