OUR MISSION
To provide a nurturing and empowering living community for homeless women escaping sexual exploitation, prostitution, and sex trafficking.
THE ISSUE
Women who are forced into prostitution, sexually exploited or trafficked for sex work are a special population within the community of the homeless.
This vulnerable population is particularly subject to alcohol and substance abuse and the violence and trauma of street life. They are often overlooked, disregarded, ignored, and looked down upon by social service providers.
San Francisco SafeHouse is the only residential program of its kind in the city. It is also one of the few nationwide. We have successfully created a safe place for women to heal and live a dignified life.
Women who are forced into prostitution, sexually exploited or trafficked for sex work are a special population within the community of the homeless.
This vulnerable population is particularly subject to alcohol and substance abuse and the violence and trauma of street life. They are often overlooked, disregarded, ignored, and looked down upon by social service providers.
San Francisco SafeHouse is the only residential program of its kind in the city. It is also one of the few nationwide. We have successfully created a safe place for women to heal and live a dignified life.
WHO WE SERVE
COURAGEOUS WOMEN WITH HOPE
All of the women who enter SafeHouse have experienced sexual exploitation at the hands of a trafficker or abuser. For many, it is dangerous and difficult to leave this situation-- the road to SafeHouse is not an easy one. Accessing safe and confidential housing through SafeHouse gives women the foundation needed to work toward healing and independence. The women we serve are often victims of multiple marginalizations due to factors like gender identity, race and disability, and have traditionally faced barriers to getting services. Many have experienced trauma, have histories of substance use or may need mental health support.
Last year, of our SafeHouse women:
All of the women who enter SafeHouse have experienced sexual exploitation at the hands of a trafficker or abuser. For many, it is dangerous and difficult to leave this situation-- the road to SafeHouse is not an easy one. Accessing safe and confidential housing through SafeHouse gives women the foundation needed to work toward healing and independence. The women we serve are often victims of multiple marginalizations due to factors like gender identity, race and disability, and have traditionally faced barriers to getting services. Many have experienced trauma, have histories of substance use or may need mental health support.
Last year, of our SafeHouse women:
- 100% were survivors of sex trafficking or sexual exploitation
- 100% were homeless or at risk upon entry
- 74% were domestic violence survivors
- 68% were sexual assault survivors
- 32% were stalking/harassment survivors
- 100% were engaged in a range of programming offered by SafeHouse, including individual case management, support groups, physical health classes, financial literacy workshops and more.
CORE VALUES
- Safety: Safety is a primary reason why women reach out to us. SafeHouse offers both physically and emotionally safe spaces for women to heal.
- Non-judgmental: By being non-judgmental, we maintain an open space to share, to learn from mistakes and to celebrate successes.
- Inclusivity: All of the women SafeHouse serves have been marginalized. As a result, we strive to be an inclusive and diverse organization. We create a place where all women can choose to be their whole and authentic selves without fear of oppression. We acknowledge the privileges that we hold and as a community, we rise above the fear and hate to create a warm and loving environment.
- Compassion: SafeHouse uses harm reduction and trauma informed care models to work with women.
- Whole-Person Care: We understand that healing takes place at our core and in a holistic manner, encompassing mind, body, and spirit. SafeHouse's work with survivors focuses on all these elements.
STATEMENT OF CONFIDENTIALITY
We prioritize the safety and well being of our clients. Therefore, the location of SafeHouse and the names of our clients are strictly confidential.
