At one minute after midnight today, Seminole County’s first refuge for victims of domestic violence opened its doors.
It was seven years in coming, but volunteers, some government grants, donations from charity-minded businesses and an altruistic Lotto winner made it possible.
The Safehouse of Seminole can shelter 20 victims and their children now and will be able to house 38 when it gets more furnishings.
“We’re real excited about it,” program director Cindy Crain said.
The shelter opened in a county-donated building at a location that is kept secret to ensure the safety of the residents.
A troupe of mostly volunteer workers brought the building up to county codes, painted the interior white with a cheery, bright blue trim, installed sprinkler and security systems, and made numerous repairs.
Others have given furnishings,linens, blankets, towels, toiletries and diapers.
The shelter always could use more, Crain added. Cash donations would help fund its operating budget of $362,000.
The haven’s biggest benefactor didn’t live to see its opening. Lottery winner Sheelah Ryan made the shelter possible by donating money when other agencies wouldn’t, said director Susan Denton.
This week the Safehouse was dedicated to Ryan, “a great woman who embraced life to the fullest and was committed to helping people who were helping themselves,” a sign reads.
The Safehouse was the dream of Doris Hundley, a Seminole County sheriff’s investigator, and Linda Kuhn, the Seminole-Brevard state attorney’s victim services director.
There was no place for spouse-abuse victims, Crain said. The closest shelter was in Orlando and often was full.
For more information or to donate items, call the office at (407) 330-3011. Domestic violence victims – men and women – can reach the shelter by calling (407) 330-3933.
