The YWCA of Greater Flint SafeHouse emergency shelter is the only state-certified and federally-funded domestic violence and sexual assault shelter in Genesee County.

Over the past several years, the YWCA recognized an imminent need to relocate their domestic violence and sexual assault shelter as their previous occupancy was not sustainable financially or physically.

The Hagerman Foundation awarded a grant to assist with the relocation and renovation efforts for a new facility that would allow the YWCA to continue to meet the needs of survivors while expanding their programs to include comprehensive services for victims of sexual assault. The YWCA relocated in November of 2016 to the Phoenix Building in downtown Flint. The organization now not only has an increased capacity to meet the need for immediate housing, they also connect survivors of abuse with support groups and crisis counseling that give them the tools to increase their safety and lead lives free from violence. As a result of the move, SAFE Center (Sexual Assault Forensic nurse Examiner) opened in February, 2017.

“Our new SAFE Center allows victims of sexual assault to be cared for by medical professionals specially trained in evidence collection, crisis intervention, crisis management, and client centered care,” said Rachel Johnson, YWCA of Greater Flint. “Our Center also has a shower room and a quiet room for victims to speak with police or their crisis manager.”

“Truly a ‘safe’ house,” said Jocelyn Hagerman, CEO of The Hagerman Foundation. “Our team had the opportunity to tour the new facility and found ourselves moved by the warmth and care that went into planning this safe space for women and children.”