In 1975, a pilot program began in New York City’s court system that addressed the urgent need to assist criminal court witnesses who had been intimidated, or who felt too threatened to testify in court. Three years later, that pilot program became the Victim Services Agency, offering a broader array of services that helped more victims of crime and abuse.
By 1981, the Victim Services Agency provided programs for victims of domestic violence, offering them shelter, counseling, and other practical support. Over the next three decades, the Victim Services Agency created other innovative programs – from Streetwork to Families of Homicide Victims – that became nationally recognized models for assisting victims and their families during times of crisis.
In 2000, the Victim Services Agency became Safe Horizon, a change in name that emphasized our belief that every person impacted by violence and abuse deserves to have a “safe horizon,” a day when they could look forward to a better and safer tomorrow.
Today, Safe Horizon is the largest victim service organization in the country. Every year, 250,000 people who have experienced violence, abuse, or exploitation seek safety through our services. We offer immediate and practical support like a hot meal, someone to talk to, and a safe place to sleep, as well as deep, ongoing services such as mental health counseling, help finding a place to live and to work, and assistance navigating oppressive and often racist systems. Safe Horizon believes that everyone deserves to feel safe in their communities, homes, bodies, and minds. Because safety is a human right.
