Safety with dignity
Since 1992, Safe Harbor has been a refuge for women and children in Central Virginia.
Our story
In 1992, three nurses at a Richmond hospital saw the same women return again and again with injuries and nowhere safe to go. They opened a two-bedroom apartment as a shelter and kept the address secret.
Today Safe Harbor operates a confidential shelter, a 24-hour hotline, a counseling center and a legal clinic. Our staff and volunteers have supported more than 7,000 families.
We do not tell survivors what to do. We offer safety, options and respect, and we stand with them through whatever comes next.
How we work
Safety first
Everything we do protects your privacy and security.
Your choices, your pace
Survivors lead. We support and never pressure.
Believe and respect
You will be heard and never judged.
Healing together
Community is part of every recovery.
How we got here
A few moments that shaped who we are today.
Two-bedroom apartment
Three nurses open the first shelter.
Legal Advocacy
We add a free legal clinic and court accompaniment.
New shelter opens
A purpose-built home with 32 beds.
210 families
We help more families than in any year of our history.
Our advocates
Executive DirectorDr. Miriam Cole
A social worker who has led Safe Harbor for 18 years.
Director of ShelterRenee Alvarado
Oversees the 24/7 shelter team and household support.
Legal AdvocateNaomi Fitch, JD
Guides survivors through court with compassion and clarity.
Lead CounselorTasha Bryant, LCSW
Facilitates individual and group healing programs.
What we promise
- Every person deserves to live free from violence.
- What you tell us stays with us.
- We will never ask you to leave before you are ready.
- Children heal when their parents are supported.
- Ending abuse takes the whole community.
Help a family start over
The shelter location is confidential. Call or text first, and we will arrange a safe way to reach you.