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How does one begin a safe house for women and children escaping abusive relationships?

I ultimately plan on starting a safe house, but I need to know more of how. Are there rules and guidelines? Can I expect any kind of financial aid in supporting it? #lawyer #police #social-worker

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Warren’s Answer

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I am not a member of the Georgia Bar, so at some point, you should find an enterprising Georgia lawyer who has experience helping startups, maybe even not-for-profits.


In the meantime, I would go to the website of whatever department of Georgia government regulates business licensees. That might be the department that regulates safe houses and shelters, or it might be a department of public safety, or even the same department that regulates hotels and inns. More than one department might be involved. You need to identify all the requirements for licensure and develop a plan for complying with them.


Then you'll need a business plan so that your shelter can raise the money it needs, obtain a facility with beds, a common area, bathrooms with showers, a kitchen, etc.


It's very common for lawyers, doctors or others to serve on the board of directors of such shelters. So they will know the financial and other challenges that such an organization faces. I would contact one of those lawyers and see if they will commit some pro bono time (free advice) to you.


You might also consider getting a job at such a shelter to see how you like it.

Warren recommends the following next steps:

Contact someone who serves on the board of directors of a women's shelter and see if they will share some thoughts with you.
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Mozart’s Answer

The first step in starting a safe house or domestic/sexual violence shelter is making sure you and the people you work with are trusted enough in the community to make people comfortable enough to come to your safe house. Once you know or find a way to gain the trust of folks who are trying to escape difficult situations the next step is to collaborate and start conversations with:

1. Law enforcement - Usually are one of the first people to know about serious situations
2. Hospitals - Meet with people in the emergency room and share your idea

Once you have coordinated with medical and law enforcement, you'll then be on the journey of either collaborating with an existing non-profit or starting a new one.
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