Laurens County Safe Home Urgently Needs Community Support
July 9, 2024
As temperatures rise this summer, so does the need for support services provided by the Laurens County Safe Home. The combination of heat-induced stressors, higher utility bills, and the financial strain of children being home from school has led to an increase in domestic violence cases. Many individuals are seeking refuge, hoping to secure a safe and stable environment for their families before the new school year begins. This surge in demand has significantly depleted the Safe Home’s resources, especially daily supplies.
Executive Director Dawn Ardelt highlighted the current situation: “While the heat does not cause domestic violence, it does lead to shorter fuses and more stressors. Rising utilities, children being out of school, and higher food costs contribute to the strain. Many victims are more likely to leave during the summer, hoping to establish a new home free from violence by the start of the school year.”
Among the most urgently needed items are hairbrushes, styling products, and health and beauty supplies including shampoo, conditioner, hair spray, styling products, deodorant, body wash, lotion, African American perms and toothpaste. The shortage of affordable safe housing means clients are staying longer at the Safe Home, resulting in a high food and supply budget. Ardelt emphasized the community’s role in supporting those in need: “We hope Laurens County residents will help us serve those who are trying to escape violence. We are receiving an alarming number of requests for financial assistance from former clients who are struggling to make ends meet. Providing some basic supplies can help them stretch their budget.”
In addition to these needs, the Safe Home is launching a back-to-school supply and first-day-of-school outfit adoption program to assist clients. Donations can be dropped off at the thrift store, Our Little Shop, located in Laurens, or arrangements can be made by calling 864-682-7270 ext 3.
Financial donations are also crucial and can be mailed to P.O. Box 744, Clinton, or made online at The Safe Home.
Together, the community can help ensure that victims of domestic violence have the support and resources they need to live a life free from violence.
