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Safe Hope asks Newton commission to consider city funding during 2027 budget review
Summary
Safe Hope leaders presented a 2027 budget request and described services — 24-hour helpline, emergency shelter, the Resiliency Center and legal advocacy — urging Newton to resume direct municipal support; presenters detailed current local funding from nearby counties and cities and left materials for commissioners to review.
Safe Hope co-executive director Angela Shatman asked the Newton City Commission on May 11 to consider restoring direct municipal funding for the nonprofit’s 2027 budget.
"Safe Hope exists to provide safety, support, advocacy, and hope for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and crisis situations within our community," Shatman said, adding the agency provides free and confidential services including a 24-hour helpline, crisis intervention, emergency shelter, counseling and court advocacy.
Shatman introduced Heather Morrow, community engagement coordinator, and Courtney Becker, grant finance manager, and said Safe Hope is seeking city support to sustain and expand those services. The presenters said rising housing costs, financial strain and mental-health needs have increased demand and are stretching the organization’s resources.
Courtney Becker provided county and municipal funding context: Safe Hope receives $17,500 annually from McPherson County, the presenters said, and the city of McPherson contributes $4,000 a year; Harvey County provides $7,500 annually plus office space and in-kind support. Presenters told commissioners they have not previously sought regular direct funding from some neighboring jurisdictions and are now approaching Marion County and local cities for modest contributions.
A resident who addressed the commission during public comment described being a former Safe Hope client and credited the group’s support groups and the Resiliency Center with helping her feel less isolated. "When you feel like you're not alone, you have strength to do what you need to do," the speaker said.
Shatman left printed materials for commissioners, including the organization’s newsletter and service statistics, and said Safe Hope can provide a geographic breakdown of clients by self-reported address if the commission wants data to evaluate how much municipal support is warranted.
Commissioners did not take a funding vote at the meeting. Staff and presenters said the request will be considered as part of upcoming budget discussions and further follow-up or a formal funding proposal may return to a future meeting.
