News (blog)

Building Connected Communities helps us reduce the likelihood of sexual abuse, assault, and harassment in our communities. Any space where people come together is a community, whether in neighborhoods, workplaces, campuses, organizations, or even online spaces. We are all a part of a community, often many, even when we may feel disconnected or apart from them.Community is powerful. Community creates…

Someplace Safe was recently awarded an $80,000 grant from Otto Bremer Trust. The funds will be used to maintain crime victim advocacy services provided to crime survivors throughout the agency’s 9-county service area. These services include crisis intervention, legal advocacy, emergency housing and resources, safety planning and referrals. Services are provided to nearly 4,000 area individuals annually…

Someplace Safe was recently awarded grant funding to offer supportive services to community members who are experiencing labor trafficking. Labor trafficking occurs in many different settings, including farms, factories, restaurants and the hospitality industry, and in private homes. Individuals experiencing labor trafficking can be US citizens or can be working in the US on legal work visas. Examples…

During Black History Month, we believe it is important to call attention to the reality that members of the Black community face and experience disproportionate rates of violence in comparison to many other communities. It's important to acknowledge this reality and examine intersections in efforts to work towards solutions and equity.Disparities in domestic violence:Higher rates: Black women experience…

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. Dating violence is unfortunately common, affecting millions of teenagers and young adults in the United States. According to the CDC, about one in twelve teens have experienced dating violence. However, the actual number is likely higher because many people are afraid to report their partner’s unhealthy behaviors. Victims of…

Stalking and human trafficking are two complex and serious issues that, unfortunately, can intersect in dangerous ways. Both involve power dynamics, control, and exploitation, and understanding their connection is crucial to preventing and supporting victims.Stalking as a Tool for TraffickersPredatory surveillance: Stalkers often gather information about their victims, including their routines, habits,…

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness Month. Human trafficking is a reality that plagues many communities, including rural areas. While it's often portrayed as an urban issue, it's crucial to recognize the unique vulnerabilities and challenges often faced by rural communities. Let's take a closer look at human trafficking in rural communities: Vulnerability factors: Isolation…

We talk about the importance of advocacy and support for victims and survivors quite often at Someplace Safe, and we see first-hand each and every day how important an Advocate can be in the lives of survivors. This month, let's dig more into advocacy and why it can be so crucial to so many.Advocacy support can have a profound impact on survivors of trauma, helping them to navigate the complex legal,…

The gift of giving is one of the greatest gifts we can receive and bestow. It is the act of sharing our time, talents, and resources with others, without expecting anything in return. Giving can be small or large, simple or complex, but it always has the power to make a difference in the life of another person.There are many reasons why giving is so important. First, it is a way to show our love and…

“As a long-time supporter of Someplace Safe, I have found and witnessed countless ways to get involved in supporting their efforts and work throughout the years. Little did I know how close to home the important work of this organization would touch myself and my family. I first heard about Someplace Safe when I was a student, and an advocate came in to speak to one of my classes about the organization,…