For over 26 years, Safe Shores' child-friendly approach has ensured that children traumatized by abuse have a safe and welcoming place, their voices are heard, their needs are placed first. It provides a compassionate, comprehensive approach to child victims: sensitive forensic interviews and evaluations, a supervised playroom for kids awaiting interviews, new clothes and toiletries, meals, and funds for emergency needs. The model also includes training for partner agencies and volunteers, prevention training for adults, and mental health assessment and treatment. During the pandemic, an untold number of children spent months in isolation with their abusers. While reports of suspected abuse fell dramatically, parental stress and economic instability increased the risk factors. Now, Safe Shores anticipates a spike in reports of youth who have experienced long-term exposure to abuse and may require more intensive and lengthier support. No child should go through this alone.
Headquarters: DC-Ward 6
Where They Operate: DC-Citywide
Age Groups Served: Infants (0-2); Pre-K (3-4); Youth (5-11); Pre-teen/teen (12-17)
Ethnic Groups Served: African American; Caucasian; Latino/Hispanic
Awards & Recognition
2020: Awarded the Nonprofit Village's annual Impact Award for a large non-profit.
Press
- Why Child Abuse Reports Have Plummeted During Pandemic
Wed Sep 2 2020, The Washington Informer
"We believe the number of children who are brought to Safe Shores is the tip of the iceberg," said Michele Booth Cole of Safe Shores.
- The centers helping child abuse victims have seen 40,000 fewer kids amid the pandemic
Sat Aug 29 2020, The Washington Post
The only child advocacy center in DC, Safe Shores, pivoted to teleforensics and continued to support families through the pandemic.
- Keeping Kids Safe During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Wed Jul 29 2020, Facebook Live
This important conversation brought together executive directors from
Darkness to Light, Together for Girls, and Safe Shores.
- Avoiding Child Abuse and Neglect During the Coronavirus Shutdown
Wed Apr 15 2020, WHUR 96.3
Parents are shut-in with their children 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. How do can they keep the peace and lower the risk of striking out?
- Child abuse is likely going underreported during the coronavirus pandemic. Here's what you can do to help
Mon Mar 30 2020, WUSA9
"Sometimes shelter is not shelter. Home is not safe," said Michele Booth Cole, executive director of Safe Shores.
Budget (FY2023)
- The current budget for Safe Shores-The DC Children's Advocacy Center is: $3 million or higher
- $1 million to $3 million
- $500k to $1 million
- Less than $500k
Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to
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