SAFE Place Business Model To Be Examined

The new director of Calhoun County's domestic abuse shelter tells WBCK her arrival is an opportunity to examine the operation top-to-bottom.

Jessica Edel Harrelson said such a review is likely in order to determine if the organization is being as responsive as possible for those locally who are attempting to escape a domestic violence situation.

Harrelson became the director at SAFE Place in September 2016, succeeding Jennifer Fopma, who was placed on paid leave in mid-February and dismissed on February 29, 2016.

Fopma had been sounding alarms about dire financial straits for SAFE Place, given a downturn in funding and an upswing in demand for services. Harrelson said she is examining all aspects of the operation.

In a January 2016 interview on WBCK, Battle Creek Community Foundation CEO Brenda Hunt - questioned about dire year-end appeals for funding from SAFE Place and The Haven of Rest - said she believes SAFE Place needs to change its business model.

Hear more of Harrelson's perspective and background by clicking the player below.

Hear The Richard Piet Show weekday mornings from 5:30-9 on WBCK.