Florence, S.C.: Celebrating 35 Years of Hope and Safety
In a heartwarming ceremony held at the Florence County Complex, the Pee Dee Coalition’s Emergency Safe Shelter was honored with a proclamation by the Florence County Council Chairman, William Schofield. This occasion not only recognized the shelter’s vital contributions over the years but also coincided with a significant milestone—the shelter’s 35th anniversary of providing refuge and support to women and children fleeing from the clutches of domestic violence.
A Lifeline in Times of Need
For over three decades, the Pee Dee Coalition’s Emergency Safe Shelter has stood as a beacon of hope in the Pee Dee region, offering safety and assistance to those in dire situations. The shelter’s director, Shonette Dargan-Richardson, emphasized the essence of the facility, lovingly described as the best-kept secret of the community. “We provide a place where survivors can find shelter without any fees, allowing them to focus on recovery and rebuilding their lives,” she said.
The shelter, based in a historic home dating back to 1915, is a cozy haven that prioritizes confidentiality and safety. Many individuals and families arrive with little more than the clothes on their backs. Recognizing this, the staff ensures that every client has access to essential services, including food, clothing, transportation, and even counseling, all while offering a safe environment to encounter their trauma.
Adapting to Evolving Needs
Dargan-Richardson shared that the current housing policy has evolved, now allowing victims to stay for up to six months when necessary—an upgrade from the previous minimum of 60 days. “As long as there is imminent danger, we are here to help,” she noted, highlighting the shelter’s commitment to being available 24/7, ensuring that a compassionate staff member is always on hand to answer calls on their crisis hotline.
According to statistics, South Carolina ranks high in domestic violence-related homicides, which adds urgency to the shelter’s operation. “It’s shocking to know that we are sixth in the nation regarding these tragic events,” Dargan-Richardson reflected. “This reinforces the importance of having a facility like ours in the community.”
The Journey of Resilience
Since its inception, the Pee Dee Coalition’s Emergency Safe Shelter has served over 3,000 clients, each with unique stories and needs. The journey has not been without challenges; however, the shelter has shown remarkable resilience, even after a devastating fire in 2010 that forced a temporary shift to hotel accommodations. The unwavering support of the community, along with generous donations, has continually revived and improved the shelter’s facilities, allowing it to expand its services significantly.
In recent years, improvements have included a new playroom for children, a handicap-accessible bedroom, and updated offices for staff. These changes not only enhance comfort but also allow the shelter to better serve its clients. A recent campaign titled “A Place to Lay Their Head” embodies the spirit of gratitude the shelter feels towards its supporters.
Looking Ahead
As the shelter gears up to celebrate an impressive 35-year legacy, its mission remains clear: to ensure that every individual seeking safety has a place to call home. Shonette Dargan-Richardson reiterated that the evolving nature of domestic violence awareness plays a crucial role in this mission. “We see many cases today that we might not have seen 35 years ago,” she shared. “We even support men who may be victims of domestic violence, which was rarely acknowledged in the past.”
The shelter’s willingness to adapt to the changing landscape of domestic violence awareness highlights its ongoing commitment to offering a safe space for all. With a continued focus on service expansion and community support, the Pee Dee Coalition’s Emergency Safe Shelter is determined to be a sanctuary of resilience for many years to come.
