This newspaper article is reproduced from the Huron County View October 8, 2026 Edition

More than ten million people a year are abused by an intimate partner, and the possibility of having nowhere to go is one of the many fears that can keep victims imprisoned in a dangerous situation.

Thanks to the work of Huron County SafePlace, those in Huron Sanilac and Tuscola counties do have somewhere to go, and somewhere to receive emergent aid in many forms. More than just a shelter, SafePlace provides residential and non-residential comprehensive services to women and children. with the help of many local organizations, Huron County SafePlace opened its door on November 28th, 2005, with the aim of providing emergency shelter for survivors of domestic abuse. More than 20 years later, the organization continues to provide shelter, food and clothing, transportation help, housing and relocation advocacy community referrals, case management, crisis intervention and more.

In 2026 alone, SafePlace has provided 1,986 nights of shelter to women and children as of October 7, and has reached capacity many times this year. Since opening in November 2005, SafePlace has provided 27,986 nights of shelter to women and children.

Domestic violence is defined as the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault and/or other abusive behaior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner agains another. It includes physical violence, sexual violence, threats and emotional abuse. the frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically, can take many forms, and can affect anyone.

At SafePlace, the mission is to provide a supportive environment in which domestic abuse survivors can assess their needs, evaluate alternatives, access caring and compassionate services and be empowered to make decisions about their future. Every client, regardless of race, culture, religion, language, age, physical ability, mental agility, and/or sexual orientation is provided with services. If SafePlace is unable to provide assistance to the client, then the client will be referred to other agencies.

HOW YOU HELP

Because SafePlace is independently funded, monetary donations are central to their ability to remain open. SafePlace operates on the generosity, kindness and commitment from the community.

• Those wishing to support SafePlace can do so in a variety of ways including through monetary donations or by donating items such as cleaning supplies, household items, office supplies, food, hygiene items and more.
  

• The Cell Phones for Safety program is an ongoing fundraiser and partnership between Thumb Cellular and SafePlace that allows people to donate their old cell phones (working or broken) and cell phone accessories at business locations throughout Huron County. Thumb Cellular recycles the items and donates proceeds to SafePlace. A complete list of business sites can be found by visiting Cell Phones for Safety.

Community invited to celebrate 21 years of SafePlace on November 5.

SafePlace will host its Annual Appreciation Banquet at 5.30pm on Thursday November 5th and all are welcome to attend, the event is open to the public and there is no cost to attend. Please RSVP to save your spot at 989.269.5300.

For more information about services, how to donate, or if you or someone you know is in need of help, check out our web pages or call 989.269.5300 or 888-849-SAFE.

To donate online click here -

To donate via check send funds to PO Box 8, Bad Axe, MI 48413