Individuals who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, human trafficking, and elder abuse face extensive barriers to obtain services and justice. Safe Alliance CEO and President, Laura Lawrence (pictured right), said currently "People had to go to nine different locations, fill out 27 forms and tell their stories 27 times". Through countless amounts of advocacy and collaboration, organizations have found a way for individuals in Mecklenburg County to have an easier path for receiving supportive services, finding justice, and beginning healing. This model, called a family justice center, locates all service providers in one place. For this community, our place for safety, justice and healing for survivors of abuse will be called The Umbrella Center.With the help of non-profit partners Safe Alliance and Pat's Place Child Advocacy Center, along with core partners in the public support, healthcare, legal and law enforcement spaces, The Umbrella Center will bring together resources from 250 providers and more than 15 different organizations.
In May, U.S. Representatives Alma Adams and Jeff Jackson held a press conference and presented The Umbrella Center's capital campaign with $2.5 million donation. In addition, another investment of $1.95 million was made by WellCare & Centene Foundation in May to support The Umbrella Center. Both donations significantly contribute to the $42 million capital campaign goal. Safe Alliance is so appreciative of this support.
The Umbrella Center will be in East Charlotte on Albemarle Road, and the property was purchased in 2022. Currently The Umbrella Center is in the predesign phase. They have begun demolition of the building and construction is expected to start within a year. It is expected to open in the Summer of 2026 and serve over 10,000 people a year.
Safe Alliance, alongside community partners, has created a precursor to The Umbrella Center, the Survivor Resource Center (SRC). The SRC is referral only as it is only a short-term solution, but The Umbrella Center will provide walk-in services to community members. However, if you need these services now, please contact the Greater Charlotte Hope Line at 980.771.4673.
