Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For Survivors & Clients:
We provide emergency shelter, crisis counseling, advocacy, legal assistance, safety planning, support groups, and referrals to community resources.
Yes, our shelter is at a confidential location with security measures in place to protect residents.
No, all of our services are provided free of charge.
Yes, our shelter is family-friendly
Yes, we assist with filing protective orders, court advocacy, and referrals to legal aid services.
In North Carolina, to qualify for a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO), also known as a 50B order, you must have a personal relationship with the abuser (such as a spouse, ex-spouse, current or former dating partner, household member, or co-parent) and must have experienced domestic violence, including physical harm, threats, harassment, or stalking. You must provide evidence of abuse and file a request with the court. SAFE can assist you with filing out a protective order.
In North Carolina, to qualify for a Civil No-Contact Order (50C order), you must be a victim of unlawful conduct, such as stalking or non-consensual sexual conduct, by someone with who you do not have a personal relationship. Unlike a Domestic Violence Protective Order (50B), a 50C order is for protection against non-family members, acquaintances, or strangers. You must file a request with the court and provide evidence of the harassment or abuse.
You do not have to leave your abuser to receive support. We offer counseling, safety planning, and advocacy tailored to your situation.
Yes, we offer crisis counseling and referrals to licensed therapists.
We can assist with emergency financial aid, transportation, and housing referrals based on available resources.
SAFE cannot grant custody or emergency custody, but we can assist you in the process.
We will help you understand custody laws and your rights. We can also connect you with legal aid for custody filings. If you are applying for a Domestic Violence Protective Order, this can include temporary custody provisions. For emergency custody, you will typically need to file a petition in court showing that the child is at risk of harm.
Yes, we work with community partners to help clients secure stable housing and employment.
For Community Members & Supporters:
You can donate, volunteer, or participate in our awareness and fundraising events.
We often need hygiene products, clothing, household supplies, and non-perishable food.
On a case-by-case basis we accept gently used clothing and some furniture; please call ahead for specific needs.
Volunteers can assist with events, administrative tasks, childcare, and more. Contact us to learn about current opportunities.
For Law Enforcement & Professionals:
We work closely with law enforcement to provide victim advocacy, crisis intervention, and training on domestic violence response.
We have a 24/7 crisis hotline and accept referrals from law enforcement, hospitals, and community partners.
Yes, we have advocates available to respond to hospitals for immediate crisis support.
For Funders & Grant Organizations:
We receive funding from grants, private donations, state and federal programs, and fundraising events.
We track client outcomes, service utilization, and feedback to evaluate program effectiveness.
Yes, we have advocates available to respond to hospitals for immediate crisis support.
We use de-identified data and follow strict confidentiality policies to protect client information.
Yes, as a registered nonprofit, donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
