Mission:

To provide a safe and empowering environment for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault through advocacy, education, shelter, and family support services.

About Safe Place of Eastern South Dakota

For nearly 40 years, we have supported and empowered our clients in a respectful, compassionate, nonjudgmental environment.

Services:

  • Safe-haven services – We offer emergency shelter, financial and housing assistance, and a crisis hotline for victims of abuse.

  • Advocacy – We provide services and resources to help our clients find courage, strength, and independence.

  • Family Support – Through our Family Visitation Center, we provide a safe, neutral location for supervised family visitation and exchanges, as well as a variety of parenting classes.

 

Nine counties served

Davison • Aurora • Hanson • Sanborn • Douglas • Jerauld • Hutchinson • Miner •McCook

 

History

The Mitchell Area Safehouse was established in 1984 in Mitchell, SD.

Two generous donations in the late 1990s by local philanthropist Tanta Osterhaus allowed the organization to expand and build a new facility on North Wisconsin Street.

In 2021, the Mitchell Area Safehouse became Safe Place of Eastern South Dakota. The name change reflects the eight-county region served, and better conveys that we are a resource – truly, a Safe Place – for victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking, as well as advocates for these victims and for healing families. In 2024, McCook became the ninth county Safe Place now serves.

On May 31, 2024, Safe Place ESD broke ground on a new facility which will have more space and amenities to serve our clients in comfortable, safe surroundings. The new location is 1600 North Kimball, Mitchell.

Safe Place ESD

Operating Board of Directors:

  • Jason Spicer, President

  • Andrew Becker, Vice President

  • Whitney Olinger Treasurer

  • Kristy Zink, Secretary

  • Katina Voje

  • Cleo Anderson

  • Scott Kaiser

  • Sawyer Gibson

Click here for information on Safe Place of Eastern South Dakota Foundation