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Open Hearts, Open Homes: A Manual for Safe Home Providers

NCJ Number
111378
Author(s)
N C Lander; M Johns
Date Published
1986
Length
88 pages
Annotation
This manual provides guidelines for developing 'safe homes' (shelters) for domestic-assault victims in the villages of Alaska's South Peninsula.
Abstract
A safe home is intended to provide victims of domestic assault a safe place to stay while being provided with the information and support services needed to make decisions about the future. After providing sample goals and objectives for the development of a safe home, the manual provides a tool and guidelines for assessing village needs and structures pertinent to the decision about whether a safe home is needed. Should the assessment determine that a safe home is required, an outline is provided for a presentation to the village governing body soliciting the support for a safe home. Given approval of the project by the governing body, the manual recommends establishing a task force for the period during which the safe home is planned and established. A sample enabling ordinance for the safe home is provided. The importance of soliciting the cooperation of other agencies is emphasized. Other topics covered are the recruitment of clients, staff training, and monitoring. Appended sample materials for developing and operating the safe home.