Dear Team and Supporters,

Now that 2024 has come to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on what we achieved together this past year. It’s been a year of challenges and triumphs, and through it all, your dedication has ensured that SafeHouse continues to be a place of hope and healing for survivors.

This year, we served 704 individuals, providing vital support to those in crisis. Behind every number is a life changed, a story of resilience, and the care and compassion that each of you brings to your work every day.

Here are just a few of the many highlights from 2024:

• Advocating for change: I was honored to attend NNEDV Advocacy Days in Washington, D.C. in June, amplifying the voices of survivors at the national level.
• A milestone for forensic care: Debra Higgins RN SANE A, SANE P, our SafeHouse Forensic Medical Director, joined forces with SANEs (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners) across Alabama to successfully advocate for extending the forensic exam window from 72 to 120 hours—a monumental step for survivors. Watch for the official announcement coming in 2025!
• Spotlighting our volunteers: We were honored to interview Tracey Bettis, one of our long-term sexual assault advocates, and share her inspiring story of service to survivors.
• Expanding outreach: This year, we launched a livestream initiative, hosting nine streams that reached over 1,500 viewers, and published 33 blog posts to educate and engage our community.
• Raising critical funds: Together, we raised $16,000 at our 5K fundraiser to support survivors. We also raised over $16,000 at our inaugural Trivia and Silent Auction.
• Enhancing client care: From our Life Skills groups at Shelter to launching a successful community support group, we continued to strengthen our continuum of care.
• Giving back to the community: Staff volunteered with Bundles of Hope Diaper Bank and conducted a diaper drive to support families in need.
• Making Halloween special: Thanks to the hard work of staff and donations from supporters, 13 children at Shelter enjoyed a magical Halloween complete with costumes, candy, games, pumpkins, and a party.

Amid the hard work, we also made time to connect and recharge as a team. From enjoying the sunshine at our summer staff retreat, to showing off our creativity in the Halloween door decoration contest, and sharing laughs during our staff talent show, we built memories that reminded us why we do this work together.

Looking ahead, 2025 will bring new challenges. With anticipated funding cuts and ever-growing needs in our community, the road ahead may not always be easy. But with the commitment of our incredible staff and the support of our partners, I know we can rise to meet these challenges. Now, more than ever, your work, passion, and resilience will be essential in continuing to support survivors and advocate for a safer community.

As we move into the new year, I want you to know how grateful I am for each of you. Whether you’re on the frontlines, behind the scenes, or supporting us from afar, your impact is immeasurable. Together, we are creating change that will last for generations.

Thank you for all you do, and may you find peace and joy throughout this year.

In gratitude,
Janelle Sierra
Executive Director