SECU Foundation Awards Safelight, Inc. $500K for Shelter Expansion

SECU Foundation has awarded Safelight, Inc. a substantial grant of $500,000 aimed at enhancing the shelter facilities for domestic violence survivors in Henderson County, North Carolina. This funding will enable Safelight to expand its capacity, allowing for an additional 150 individuals to access crucial support services annually.

SECU Foundation’s Commitment to Community Support

With the grant, Safelight’s existing shelter will increase from 13 to 20 rooms. This expansion is vital for providing a safe and secure environment for individuals in need. The enhancement also includes renovations to the Dandelion Café, creating a new product line for an on-site job training program.

Safelight’s Mission and Impact

Established in 1984, Safelight has been instrumental in supporting survivors of violence and abuse. Its comprehensive approach offers a continuum of services, including:

• Mental health support
• Medical assistance
• Legal counseling
• Housing solutions
• Employment resources

To date, Safelight has aided over 46,000 survivors in building healthy, violence-free lives. The organization’s dedication to helping individuals transition from crisis to stability exemplifies its crucial role in the community.

Quotes and Acknowledgments

Chris Ayers, Chair of the SECU Foundation Board, emphasized the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting those affected by violence: “For over 40 years, Safelight has been working tirelessly in Henderson County. Their work embodies our People Helping People® philosophy.”

Safelight CEO Lauren Wilkie expressed gratitude towards SECU Foundation for its support, stating, “We could not do this expansion without their support, and we are beyond grateful.”

About SECU and SECU Foundation

SECU, a not-for-profit financial cooperative, provides financial services to employees of the state of North Carolina and their families. With nearly 90 years of service, it stands as the second largest credit union in the U.S., boasting $56 billion in assets and serving over 2.9 million members.

The SECU Foundation, established in 2004, channels contributions from SECU members into high-impact community development projects. The foundation has committed over $328 million to various initiatives across North Carolina, focusing on housing, education, healthcare, and human services.

This latest grant to Safelight reflects SECU Foundation’s ongoing mission to improve the lives of local residents significantly.