Upon learning the depth of the problem, they took action and united as the Strathcona Shelter Society Ltd. in May of 1982. On July 19th of the same year, the group officially incorporated as a nonprofit organization. Just two years later, in July of 1984, A Safe Place opened its doors to women and children seeking shelter, safety, and supports to overcome domestic violence and sexual assault. Safe Talk, originally a program of A Safe Place, provided support to victims of sexual assault. As the demands for both domestic violence and sexual assault services increased, A Safe Place expanded programming to include community outreach, an Elder Abuse Line, public education, and supports for victims of Human Trafficking. SAFFRON emerged as our region’s provider for sexual assault services and support.
Since opening its doors to community in 1982, A Safe Place has sheltered more than 25,000 women and children.