S.A.F.E. Studio

CONTACT:

18D Mitchell Road
Ipswich, MA 01938
978-356-1141
www.safestudio.org

Deborah Moules, Executive Director

DESCRIPTION:

The healing power of art is the almost magical key to this program’s success in helping children and women victims of domestic violence or trauma relating to disease, substance abuse, mental health problems or family circumstances. Each week over 100 children, adolescents and women mold clay, paint, or write creatively to put themselves back together, to gain confidence and self-esteem, and gradually to rebuild their lives. A single mother of five says: “I find many times the solitude with the potter's wheel helps me to reconnect with myself after so many stressful situations due to my family's past abuse. Being here makes it possible for me to be stable throughout the week.” One young woman who came to the Studio as a 13-year-old heroin addict has since completed her GED and is enrolled at Montserrat College of Art; another in the same situation is at Lesley College in their Art Therapy Program. S.A.F.E. began in 1996 with one artist and a $5,000 grant; today there are six employees, over 75 volunteers and a budget of $144,000; they have broadened their services to raise some earned-income, but philanthropy keeps it going. You can join the magic and help art to heal.

(2006: HUMAN SERVICES: Girls and Women: Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse)