Under the direction of the Davis Citizens' Coalition Against Violence, Safe Harbor Crisis Center (originally named The Domestic Violence Shelter in Davis County) opened in 1997. In its first year, the shelter housed more than 300 adults and children who were victims of domestic violence.
Safe Harbor's services are provided by a professional and volunteer staff who are trained to deal with the effects of domestic abuse. By providing a safe place to live along with numerous services, the shelter helps to reduce domestic abuse at the crisis stage and gives victims, as well as perpetrators, the help they need to stop violence.
Special care has been taken to make the shelter feel like home. Added touches such as private rooms, a home-style kitchen, laundry room, and outdoor playground not only provide a safe place to stay, but also ensure that residents feel comfortable.
There are 10 bedrooms at Safe Harbor, each with anywhere from two to four beds. Dressers, cabinets, and hanging rods are available for storage. Cribs and playpens are also available.
A home-style kitchen includes an oven, stove, microwave, coffee maker, tableware, and a well-stocked pantry, refrigerator, and freezer.
Two washing machines and two dryers are available to shelter residents.
Two common areas include couches, televisions, VCR's, a large dining table and chairs, plus toys, books, and games for children.
Safe Harbor's outdoor playground provides a safe and secure place for play.
A variety of children's resources are offered at Safe Harbor, including a classroom for education, counseling, and play.