by Elizabeth Schroeder, Chief Operating Officer for One SAFE Place and the Children's Legacy Center
In times of significant change and uncertainty, it is essential to gather the core people and focus on what truly matters. Over the last 19 months, since entering into a management services agreement with Children's Legacy Center, One SAFE Place (OSP) has done just that—hunkered down to redefine our programs and ensure a strong foundation for the future. Under the leadership of Children’s Legacy Center (CLC), one of our priorities has been to support our team so they can continue caring for our clients, reinforcing the heart of OSP’s mission: providing safety, support, and hope to those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
Enhancing Safety and Serenity at OSP
During the last year and a half, and with sincere thanks to the combined efforts of our funding partners and community supporters, OSP has made key updates to improve the safety and comfort of our facility. Here are some of the more significant changes:
• Front Desk and Entryway: Our front desk and entryway were entirely transformed with funding from a Cal-OES Rape Crisis Grant with a total cost of $103,000. This project has significantly enhanced the security and welcoming environment of our entry space.
• Flooring and Community Room Update: The community room update, funded with approximately $45,000 from the City of Redding Community Development Block Grant, has created a more functional and inviting space. Additionally, OSP funded a necessary flooring replacement throughout a significant portion of the shelter at a cost of around $40,000.
• Shelter Furnishings: A $50,000 grant from The McConnell Foundation allowed us to furnish the emergency shelter with new beds, dressers, washing machines, dryers, and stoves. In addition, our children’s playroom received an overhaul, and we added a dedicated meeting room. These updates provide a dignified and comforting environment for those seeking refuge.
• Security Enhancements: A Cal-OES grant of $50,000 enabled us to install an intruder system, including blue alert lights, additional security cameras, and critical computer equipment upgrades, along with a backup generator. These improvements significantly bolster our facility's security during lockdowns and other emergencies.
We are deeply grateful for the support from The McConnell Foundation, Cal-OES, the City of Redding, and all our partners. Their contributions have been instrumental in upgrading our physical space and ensuring a secure and serene environment that is conducive to healing and recovery.
Expanding Expertise: Our Team at OSP
To meet the growing needs of our clients, we integrated CLC staff at OSP, enhancing both program delivery and support for our team members. We reimagined roles to better serve clients and integrated case management into our services. We are now able to provide comprehensive support tailored to an individual client’s unique needs. Our staff has received extensive training, including mental health first aid, trauma-informed care, and crisis intervention, enhancing our capacity to respond effectively in critical situations. We are committed to ongoing training, ensuring that all staff members are equipped with specialized knowledge in domestic violence and sexual assault (DV/SA) care. The care and dedication of our team are evident in their ongoing management of the crisis hotline, providing essential support at all hours of the day and night, as well as in their unwavering response to local hospitals for sexual assault and domestic violence exams.
OSP Client Services: A Client-Centered, Trauma-Informed Approach
Client services have undergone a complete transformation, focused on reducing the burden on clients and enhancing their experience at OSP. Our comprehensive client services now include triage, case management, advocacy, intake, and legal support. Key systems have been overhauled, including the emergency shelter intake process, trauma-informed case management, and policies and procedures to align with current legislation. Our revisions aim to minimize the need for clients to repeatedly disclose sensitive information. Additionally, we’ve leveraged technology to improve communication and coordination, and our documentation has been updated to be inclusive and compliant with best practices, ensuring that our services remain accessible to all.
We also continue to provide access to critical forensic medical services, including our strangulation clinic in partnership with Shasta Community Health Center (SCHC) and Mercy Family Health Residency Program.
OSP’s Shelter and Transitional Housing: A Fresh Start for Clients
Shelter services have been streamlined to provide more effective and comprehensive support for our clients. We’ve introduced a 45-day emergency shelter program, increased staff availability, and fostered shared case management responsibilities. Additionally, we've strengthened support through specialized community resources, including a partnership with the Shasta County Office of Education (SCOE) to provide educational resources and support for children and families in our care. Collaborative efforts with community partners have further enhanced the safety, well-being, and resilience of our clients.
New initiatives, such as Trauma-Informed Yoga, Self-Care Saturdays, a child enrichment program, and family fun nights, have been implemented to create a nurturing and healing environment for individuals and families residing in our shelter.
In transitional housing, we’ve made significant progress with the launch of our first multi-unit transitional housing site, expanding our capacity to 15+ units and offering more housing options for those in need.
Navigating Financial Challenges
As we reflect on the last 19 months, one thing is clear: ensuring domestic violence and sexual assault services are available to our community is a path that is worthy of travel. We are incredibly grateful for those who have come alongside One SAFE Place during this journey. However, in our determination to find a path to sustainability for these vital services, we have identified significant funding gaps that persist despite the overwhelming need.
Over the past eight months, Children’s Legacy Center has invested approximately $43,000 per month to keep the doors of OSP open. This financial strain is primarily due to the necessity of increased support for staff to meet grant compliance requirements and other operational costs. While we are actively seeking and applying for applicable grants to bring in funding from outside our community, the current financial model remains unsustainable without increased local support. We are passionate about ensuring the availability of these critical services, but we cannot do it alone.
If you are looking to make a meaningful impact in our community, consider a donation as an investment in the mission of One SAFE Place. If you are interested in learning more about the need and how you can help, our team is eager to connect with you. Click the link above or email us at giving@ospshasta.org.
Looking Ahead: Continuing to Protect and Evolve
As we move forward, our focus remains on protecting our core—our dedicated team and the essential services we provide. The changes we've made over the past 19 months are just the beginning. With a solid foundation in place, supported by the generous contributions of our community partners, we are better equipped to meet the evolving needs of our clients and continue our mission of providing safety, support, and hope to those in need.
Together, with the ongoing support of our community, we will continue to strengthen our core and adapt to meet the challenges ahead. We are committed to ensuring that every individual who walks through our doors has the opportunity to heal, rebuild, and look forward to a brighter future.
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Community support and understanding are vital to the missions of One SAFE Place and Children’s Legacy Center. The services we provide are more than just resources and temporary refuge; they are a lifeline for individuals and families rebuilding their lives after the devastation of child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking. By helping to educate individuals about the trauma those we serve endure and the complex journey they face towards healing and stability, we foster a more compassionate community that stands together against abuse.
Your involvement, whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading awareness, directly impacts the lives of those seeking safety and a fresh start. Together, we can be the supportive network that transforms hope into reality, ensuring that every person who walks through our doors knows they are not alone and that brighter days are ahead.
