Safe Haven to Open New Home during Covid Epidemic

Safe Haven, a nonprofit organization in Clarksville, has purchased a new property that will triple their housing ability for women in crisis. The nonprofit opened Feb. 1st with the ability to house 4 women in their residential program. 

“Since 2018, we’ve had the dream of opening a home that could house upwards of 30 women. Looking at such a large financial burden, the dream was only talk. Last January, we decided to ‘do what we can and not what we can’t,’ so we opened our current facility with the ability to house only four women,” said Sharon Garrett, Executive Director.

During the Covid epidemic, Safe Haven halted the intake of new clients for one month before re-opening. “We just couldn’t justify turning homeless women away. Homelessness and hunger did not stop for the virus. We decided to re-open our doors and continue our mission with strict safety procedures,” said Abigail Garrett, Program Supervisor. 

In the face of the uncertainty this year has brought, Safe Haven has continued to serve Johnson County and expand their mission. Their new facility will be able to house 12 women in recovery. Safe Haven hopes to open the new home by February 1st 2021. 

“Our mission is to provide a safe environment for women to heal in and to equip them with the necessary tools to live an independent, successful life. Our new facility will enable us to reach and empower more women in crisis in our community,” said Sharon Garrett. 

The new property was purchased with personal donations, although remodel funds are currently being raised. “We hope to have completed the renovations by our one-year anniversary. It will be a wonderful time to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the women we’ve helped in our first year,” said Sarah Bolduc, Safe Haven Administrator. 

Safe Haven’s services are free to the public and include educational classes, mentoring, case management, and a residential program.