A Safe Space for All Survivors
I believe that everyone deserves to be safe, especially in their own home and in their intimate relationship. Until that is a reality, Friendship Home exists to provide a safe space for all survivors of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking in our community.
Safe shelter, transitional and permanent housing options are critical for survivors of intimate partner violence. However, one of the most powerful aspects of our work is the emotional support advocates provide to survivors and their children. This takes many forms, advocacy, and case management to validate their experience and assist in navigating complex systems; domestic violence-informed counseling for a safe space to process their journey; assistance establishing a health home through the Health Care Navigator; peer support groups where they can share their truth; economic empowerment classes to learn new strategies for stability, all available as determined by the individual survivor.
Here are 3 things you should know about Friendship Home.
- We are survivor-centered. We meet each survivor where they are at in the process of evaluating their relationship and next steps. We are here to work alongside them, to offer options and support, and respect that each survivor has the right to make decisions best for their life.
- We provide more than safe shelter. If you are seeking assistance planning for your safety, problem-solving, or learning about community resources related to domestic violence please reach out to us.
- We are a lifeline. Survivors often tell us that they contact Friendship Home when they don’t know where else to turn. Our role is to be here for them, whenever they are ready to take that step.
Friendship Home staff are available 24 hours a day at our shelter crisis line: 402-437-9302. To quote a survivor we served years ago, “All you need to do is call.”
Friendship Home Services: https://vimeo.com/629220382
Safety Planning: https://www.dropbox.com/s/hzglvtbvkg52nl3/Safety%20Planning.mp4?dl=0
About the Author:
Leah Droge is the Assistant Director of Program Development at Friendship Home. In August, she celebrated her 17th work anniversary. Starting her career as a children’s advocate, Leah has had many roles during her tenure at Friendship Home.
Leah says, “The most rewarding part about working at Friendship Home is knowing that what we do makes a difference in the community.” She continued, “I have run into survivors over the years who share what the time and space at Friendship Home meant for their family. Creating an opportunity for someone to take a breath, to consider their options, to heal, that can be life-changing.”