Grant in the Spotlight: Safe Voices
(Washington, DC) November 30, 2020 - The Wyss Foundation is pleased to announce a grant of $30,000 to support the work of Safe Voices, a Maine-based nonprofit that provides critical shelter and support services for victims of domestic violence and human sex trafficking and sexual exploitation.
For over 40 years, Safe Voices has worked tirelessly to provide emergency services to victims of domestic violence and sex trafficking, promote ways to foster healthy relationships, educate the community on the seriousness and prevalence of these crimes and encourage legislative changes that protect against abuse.
“Domestic violence organizations like ours have been on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic response,” says Elise Johansen, Executive Director at Safe Voices. “At such a critical time, the Wyss Foundation’s generous award has contributed to Safe Voices’ ability to provide one-on-one support and safety planning, court advocacy, basic needs, transportation and accommodation for shelter for those in need.”
“The Wyss Foundation is committed to supporting safe, prosperous communities and believes that no one should live in fear of violence,” says Molly McUsic, President of the Wyss Foundation. “We are proud to support Safe Voices in developing a strong safety net for victims of domestic abuse seeking support, assistance, and a life free from the threat of further violence.
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About the Wyss Foundation - The Wyss Foundation is a private, charitable foundation dedicated to supporting innovative, lasting solutions that improve lives, empower communities, and strengthen connections to the land.
About Safe Voices – Founded in 1977, Safe Voice is the domestic violence resource center serving central and western Maine. In addition to emergency shelter, Safe Voices provides support through its 24-hour Helpline, individual safety planning, court advocacy, support groups, community education, schools-based prevention programming, and a Violence Intervention Program for those who choose abusive behaviors. In 2018 Safe Voices opened Maine’s first and only of its kind emergency safe house for victims of human sex trafficking and sexual exploitation. Safe Voices is a member of the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.