To our steadfast supporters,

 

Today I write to you with a heart full of thanks for your support during our recent SafeHouse Strong 5K Run and Walk. This year’s event was marked by a new one-mile course which has quickly become a participant favorite. Thanks to your dedication, we raised over $16,000, making this our most successful 5K to date. Special thanks go to our board members and to our sponsors:

 

SafeHouse Strong 5K Run and Walk Sponsors

Platinum

Silver

Bronze

Central Alabama Wellness Hudson & Windle Private Wealth, Ameriprise Carter Law, Inc
Long-Lewis Foundation RentUs.us (Victor E Rentals) E-Footprints
Lhoist I Heart Mac & Cheese Mental Health Mingle
Cheney Lime & Cement Co. Pesek Counseling Services

Gold

First Horizon The Higgins Family
Southern Copper & Supply Company, Inc. Dunn Construction The Martin Family
Regions The Parker Family
The Sierra Family

 

VOCA Funding Cuts

 

Now, more than ever, these funds are vital in our efforts to support victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. In the face of staggering funding cuts to the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) totaling $700 million or 40% for this year alone, the need for your support has never been greater. These cuts are already reverberating across the nation, with Alabama and our local communities feeling the impact firsthand. We have confirmation that one shelter in Morgan County is already set to shut down, and there will most likely be more to follow. As other agencies close, SafeHouse and the other remaining agencies will be working hard to pick up the slack—to make sure that all victims have a place to go for help and support. And so we’re asking for your support again.

 

How to Help

 

Support the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act

 

On April 18, 2024, a bipartisan cohort introduced the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act (H.R. 8061) in the U.S. House of Representatives. This bill redirects funds collected through the False Claims Act and into the Crime Victims Fund (CVF), stabilizing the dwindling CVF through 2029

I urge each and every one of you to take action and join us in advocating for the passage of this Act. Contact your legislators, let them know about the importance of this bill, and ask them to support it. Your voice matters.

 

Support and Social Media

 

In addition to advocacy, your donations are crucial in sustaining victim services during this challenging time. Every dollar counts and can make a significant impact in ensuring that we can continue to provide shelter, counseling, advocacy, exams, and support to those who need it. If you are able, please consider making a donation to SafeHouse today.

 

However, you can support SafeHouse in ways beyond financial contributions. We need your time and your energy. SafeHouse always needs volunteers to help out at shelter, provide transportation and childcare, and participate in outreach and fundraising activities. Spreading the word about our services and mission is equally important and can be done at no cost. Simply sharing our posts on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram helps increase community engagement and ensures people know we are here to help. Together we can amplify our impact and reach even more individuals who may be in need of our support.

 

In Conclusion

 

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our cause. Your support, whether through advocacy, donations, spreading awareness, or participating in our events is invaluable in helping us continue our mission of providing hope and healing to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Together we can stand strong and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Warmly,

Janelle Sierra

Executive Director

SafeHouse