A remodeled safe space
A ceremonial ribbon cutting at the Wilcox Building in downtown Castle Rock celebrated the additional beds and services available in the County’s remodeled safehouse for domestic abuse survivors.
A safe space. It sounds simple, but when someone is in a place where he or she cannot close their eyes at night to sleep without fear of abuse, safety is life altering. It is a new beginning.
On August 27, Douglas County leaders, law enforcement and community partners joined with the nonprofit TESSA (Trust, Education, Safety, Support and Action) for a ceremonial ribbon cutting at the Wilcox Building in downtown Castle Rock to recognize the opening of a remodeled safehouse. TESSA began in Colorado Springs in 1977 and helps women in domestic violence situations.
“The opening of the safehouse represents several years of listening, planning and partnership,” said Commissioner George Teal. “This journey has been fueled by determination to meet a critical need.”
Douglas County had a safehouse in the past, but after a domestic violence survey was conducted in June 2024, officials discovered that the need was more than current resources allowed. By reaching out to TESSA with a $350,000 investment, the county was able to improve services and accommodations, like increasing the number of beds to 35. To protect the survivors, the safehouse location is kept confidential.
Anne Markley, CEO of TESSA, said, “Every day, survivors across Douglas County face circumstances that many of us can hardly fathom. Our new safehouse exists for them, for the mother who fears for her child, for the survivor who has nowhere else to turn.”
The new safehouse not only offers more rooms, but also provides services like legal advocacy, counseling and resources, all under one roof. “This building is more than walls and doors. It is safety. It is compassion. It is the chance to rewrite one’s story,” said Anne.
Over the last month, community members collected supplies to stock the safe house. Each year, TESSA serves more than 17,000 individuals.
If you or anyone you know needs help, reach out to the TESSA Safeline at 719-633-3819.
By Karen Leigh; photo courtesy of Douglas County
