Batesville, IN — Three local foundations recently helped Safe Passage continue providing free transportation and outreach services to domestic and sexual violence survivors and their children.
The Rising Sun Regional Foundation (RSRF) and the Community Foundation of Switzerland County (CFSC) funded a lease buyout for an SUV crossover. RSRF funded $12,500 and CFSC provided $2,500, totaling the $15,000 buyout cost.
The Brookville Foundation covered the $15,000 for the other lease buyout for a similar vehicle.
Due to recent federal funding reductions, lease contracts no longer cover the two vehicles Safe Passage uses for outreach in its six-county service area.
Considering the need, the auto market at the time, and the excellent condition of the vehicle, purchasing the lease buyout was the best option for the nonprofit, and its current and future clients in the community.
Both vehicles were purchased through local dealerships.
This Mobile Advocacy project also allows Safe Passage to reach a one-hour crisis response goal.
The vehicles are accessible to on-call, 24/7 staff throughout the satellite offices of the agency’s service area.
In addition, there is limited public transportation in the rural district, which can further escalate isolation, another form of domestic violence.
A dependable and free mode of transportation allows the nonprofit to better serve the community and those in need, transporting clients to shelters, hospitals, courts, job interviews, or whatever it takes to help get their lifestyle on track, away from violence.
All services are free.
Established in 1997, Safe Passage is the sole support service provider in Dearborn, Ripley, Ohio, Switzerland, Franklin, and Jefferson counties.
The six-county service area covers over 1,500 square miles.
For more information, go to www.safepassageinc.org or call 877-733-1990.
