Survivors and Advocates for Empowerment (SAFE), Inc. assists survivors of domestic violence in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. SAFE is an innovative advocacy program that works with other governmental and non-governmental organizations to provide domestic violence survivors with the critical crisis intervention and advocacy services that they need when fleeing an abusive relationship. SAFE is housed in the Domestic Violence Intake Center at the DC Superior Court and at the Domestic Violence Intake Center Southeast Satellite at Greater Southeast Community Hospital.

Survivors of domestic violence frequently need assistance in accessing the court system and legal services, as well as assistance in obtaining the social services necessary to establish safety and support during the difficult transition of leaving a violent relationship. SAFE ensures that survivors are connected with the resources they need to maintain their safety from the moment they call the police or enter the court, through the court process, and beyond. Our advocates recognize that each client has unique and individual needs that are best addressed through empowerment. SAFE’s continuum of services – from the moment of crisis through the establishment of more stable living options – emphasizes an empowerment model in which the client is the key decision-maker in all aspects regarding their case. This philosophy of client empowerment, of assisting victims transitioning to become survivors, is at the heart of all of SAFE’s work and our interactions with clients.

SAFE works with thousands of clients every year, ensuring that they have the information and resources they need to break free from violent relationships, protect themselves and their children from abuse, relocate to a safer place, or obtain a protection order. SAFE provides services to all domestic violence victims in DC, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or immigration status. SAFE’s continued work with survivors is crucial to reducing domestic violence in the District of Columbia.