KEARNEY, Neb. - October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the S.A.F.E. Center in Kearney is marking it by showcasing its work and raising funds to rebuild a crucial shelter for survivors.

The organization provides services across Buffalo, Franklin, Harlan, Kearney and Phelps Counties, helping adults and children affected by domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.

In addition to emergency services, the S.A.F.E. Center also focuses on prevention programs like "SAFE Bars," which trains hospitality workers to recognize and intervene in unsafe situations, and "Green Dot," which teaches community members how to be proactive bystanders.

The S.A.F.E. Center is holding several upcoming fundraising events, including partnerships with All In Boutique and BombGars’ Ladies Day on November 2.

The biggest effort is the Safe Tomorrow Campaign, which aims to raise $250,000 to rebuild the organization’s shelter.

“We experienced a fire at our shelter in April, and we’ve been housing survivors in hotels since then,” said S.A.F.E. Center Executive Director Nikki Gausman. “The Safe Tomorrow campaign is helping us raise funds for a new shelter — with better security, accessibility, and safety for survivors in our community.”

Last year the S.A.F.E. Center provided in-person services to around 600 adults and children, with nearly 100 of whom needed emergency shelter.

Staff say the need for those services remains steady, and community support is essential.

“We hope the community comes together again to support survivors,” said Gausman. “It’s so important that services are available when people are ready to reach out.”

The SAFE Center hopes to wrap up its Safe Tomorrow campaign by the end of December.

Community members have shown their support this month through several recent events, including a screening of Fried Green Tomatoes at The World Theatre, the Comfort & Joy raffle, Runza Night, Purple Thursday and more.

Additional information, including where to donate, can be found here.