The Survivors of Abuse Feeling Empowered for Re-entry (SAFER) program is a one-of-a-kind partnership between RESPOND and the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department, supporting women who are incarcerated or detained as they process experiences of domestic violence and plan for a safe, stable place to go once they’re released.
My name is Kahdijah, and I am a Domestic Violence Counselor at the Suffolk County House of Corrections. Here, I get to take up space and build a community within the institution, a crucial part of supporting survivors. Here is a day in my life at work…
institution, a crucial part of supporting survivors. Here is a day in my life at work…
9:00–9:30am | Prep for DV101 Class
I gather resources, print materials, and get ready to lead today’s class for the women on the 11th floor.
9:30–11:00am | DV101 Class
We start with an icebreaker and soothing music before diving into the day’s topic and discussion. After 90 minutes, participants head back to their units.
11:00am–12:00pm | Morning Floor Rounds
I check in on clients across the 11th and 9th floors—answering questions, providing resources, and following up on parole or prerelease updates.
12:00–1:00pm | Office Time
I finalize class notes, respond to follow-up requests, and prepare for afternoon rounds.
1:00–2:00pm | One-on-One Support
I meet individually with clients for emotional support, safety planning, and connecting them with resources for shelter, legal help, and mental health. These meetings give survivors the privacy and space to ask questions and shape a plan that works best for them.
2:00–5:00pm | Afternoon Floor Rounds & New Intakes
I check in across floors, follow up on SAFER referrals, and welcome new participants into the program. On Wednesdays, I also lead Phase 2 orientation for new inmates, providing an overview of the SAFER Program and what support is available.
Every step of the day is about helping survivors plan for safety, access resources, and take meaningful steps toward life beyond abuse. Through every conversation, every plan, and every connection, we witness the hope that can grow when survivors are supported. Many who come to the House of Correction have faced incredibly challenging pasts, and our mission is to show that after release, a fresh start is possible…and support is always here.
Support RESPOND’s unique programs, including our SAFER Program.
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