Ways to Support SAFE
Monetary
Donation
Physical Donation
Raise Awareness
Volunteer
Monetary Donations
The Tuscaloosa SAFE Center is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) organization funded by the generosity of individuals, families, small businesses, foundations, students, and community organizations. Every contribution — no matter the size — helps us provide wrap-around care to survivors of sexual violence in West Alabama.
Your generosity allows us to provide services at no cost to survivors.
Every dollar is used thoughtfully and responsibly, and your gift is tax-deductible. Your support ensures that every patient who comes to SAFE receives quality medical care and compassionate support.
You can make a donation in the following ways:
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Venmo
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PayPal
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By check (mailed or delivered in person)
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Cash donations
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By phone
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Monthly recurring gifts
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Matching gifts
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Donations of securities
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Legacy or planned gifts
If you have any questions about making a donation, please reach out to our team.
Physical donations help us care for patients in meaningful and practical ways. The items below directly support individuals in the hours immediately following a forensic exam.
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Patient Clothing
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Because clothing may be collected as part of the forensic exam, patients are often unable to leave in the clothing they arrived in. We provide new, comfortable clothing so they can leave feeling supported and cared for.
We welcome donations of new clothing items such as sports bras, leggings or sweatpants, T-shirts, and men’s boxers in a range of sizes. All clothing must be new and unused.
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Patient Hygiene Items
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Following the exam, patients are given the opportunity to shower. We provide each patient with new hygiene items so they can clean up and leave with a renewed sense of comfort and dignity.
We are always in need of new, individually packaged items such as body wash, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products. While all sizes are welcome, travel-size items are preferred.
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Patient Snacks
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In the aftermath of trauma, something simple like food or a drink can be grounding and comforting. Many patients also receive medications, including antibiotics, which can be hard on the stomach.
After the forensic exam is complete, patients often appreciate having something to eat or drink before they leave. We are always in need of bottled water, Gatorade or Powerade, and individually wrapped snacks such as chips, crackers, Pop-Tarts, and similar shelf-stable items.
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Shop Our Amazon Wishlist
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For added convenience, many of our most-needed physical donation items can be purchased directly through our Amazon Wishlist and shipped to the SAFE Center.
View our wishlist here:
Physical Donations
Raising Awareness
Host an Event
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Businesses, schools, clubs, and community groups can make a meaningful impact by hosting a fundraiser to benefit the Tuscaloosa SAFE Center.
Whether it’s a workplace initiative, a student-led event, a church offering, or a community fundraiser, we are happy to partner with you. Events not only raise critical funds but also increase awareness of trauma-informed care and survivor support in West Alabama.
To explore hosting an event, contact us to learn more.
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Request a Speaker or Educational Presentation
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Inviting a representative from the Tuscaloosa SAFE Center to speak at your company, church, school, or civic organization is another powerful way to support our mission.
Through education and outreach, we provide information about sexual violence prevention, available resources, trauma-informed response, and how communities can better support survivors.
To request a speaker or schedule a presentation, contact us for availability and details.
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Share Our Mission
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One of the most powerful ways to support the SAFE Center is through word of mouth. By sharing who we are, what we do, and the services we provide, you help ensure survivors know where to turn for care and support.
Talking with friends, family, colleagues, and community members about the SAFE Center helps strengthen awareness and access to services across West Alabama.
Volunteer
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Volunteers are an important part of the Tuscaloosa SAFE Center’s mission. By serving alongside our staff, volunteers help ensure survivors receive compassionate care and steady support during a difficult time.
Because of the sensitive nature of our work, volunteering requires commitment, reliability, and a willingness to learn.
All volunteers must complete an application, participate in an interview, pass a criminal background check, and attend a mandatory training before beginning service.
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Medical Advocates
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Medical advocates provide support to patients during the forensic exam process. They offer a calm presence, help patients feel informed, and stand alongside them throughout their time at the SAFE Center.
This role requires emotional maturity, discretion, and dependability. We provide specialized training to prepare each advocate to serve with confidence and care.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Shannon@tuscaloosasafecenter.com for more information.