Tessa’s new Douglas County safe house reports early referrals, 8-week stays and a 24/7 safeline

Tessa’s new domestic-violence safe house in Douglas County, which opened in late August, is operating with community referrals and a 24/7 safeline, manager Camry told the Homeless Initiative executive committee.

"We are there for holidays, weekends, absolutely everything," Camry said, describing the safe-line intake and partner warm handoffs that let community organizations call with hesitant clients.

Camry said the safe house has served a mix of victims — domestic violence, human trafficking and sexual assault — and receives referrals from the sheriff’s office, police, the HEART team, hospitals and child welfare. The program uses a McKinney-Vento liaison to help children remain in their original schools when possible and works with regional partners such as Cover Colorado and Catholic Charities to provide longer-term case management for trafficking survivors.

The safe house operates an eight-week capacity model for all client types; Camry noted some trafficking clients may need longer regional supports and that partners can extend assistance beyond eight weeks. Camry also described practical needs: donations (new underwear and bras for adults and children), homey furnishings, holiday decorations and other in-kind items to make the environment more welcoming.

Tessa has coordinated closely with law enforcement, and Sheriff Darren Weekley told the committee the safe house fills a gap he saw in local crisis response. County and nonprofit partners praised rapid set-up and cross-agency coordination and said they would continue outreach to raise awareness of the service.

Camry encouraged partners and residents to contact the safe-line or email for donation pickups and connection procedures.