Sanctuaries of Hope

UREEP is committed to providing safe and secure environments for vulnerable young girls fleeing assault, abuse, and domestic violence. Through the establishment of safe houses and shelters, UREEP will offer a refuge where survivors can find protection, receive care, and begin the process of rebuilding their lives. These facilities will be staffed by highly qualified professionals, trained specifically to address the complex emotional, psychological, and physical needs of survivors. Our goal is to provide not only immediate safety but also long-term support that empowers these young girls to envision and pursue a brighter, more hopeful future.

The safe houses and shelters operated by UREEP will be equipped with comprehensive support services to address the holistic needs of survivors. From the moment they enter our care, survivors will have access to trauma-informed counseling, mental health services, and legal assistance, helping them navigate the emotional and practical aspects of recovery. We will also provide health services, including medical care and wellness programs, ensuring that survivors’ physical well-being is prioritized. Educational and vocational training opportunities will be integrated into the care model, allowing survivors to continue their education or acquire the skills necessary to achieve economic independence. This multifaceted approach ensures that every girl we serve is empowered to reclaim control over her life and future.

Security and confidentiality are paramount in the operation of UREEP’s safe houses and shelters. Each location will be selected based on its capacity to provide a secure and legally compliant environment, ensuring that survivors are shielded from potential threats. We will implement robust security measures, including restricted access, surveillance systems, and confidentiality protocols that safeguard the identities and locations of the beneficiaries. These measures are critical to protecting survivors from further harm and ensuring their safety while they recover.

The staffing of our shelters will involve the careful selection of professionals who are not only qualified but also deeply committed to the mission of supporting survivors. Our staff will be trained in trauma care, crisis intervention, and security protocols to ensure that they can respond effectively to the unique challenges faced by each girl. In addition to professional qualifications, our team members will possess key skills such as cultural competence, empathy, and strong communication abilities, enabling them to create a supportive and trusting environment for survivors. Leadership experience and a deep understanding of gender-based violence will also be key criteria in selecting shelter managers and other senior staff.

The intake and assessment process will be managed through a comprehensive referral system involving schools, social workers, and local governments. UREEP will work closely with these partners to identify girls in need of immediate intervention and safe shelter. Upon intake, each survivor will undergo a thorough evaluation, allowing us to develop a personalized care plan that addresses her specific needs. This framework ensures that we can provide tailored services, whether the focus is on emotional recovery, legal advocacy, or educational support.

Land and property for the safe houses and shelters will be acquired through a combination of grants, donations, communal land offers, and contributions from the charity’s founders. We will engage in strategic partnerships with local and international organizations to secure these resources, ensuring that our shelters are not only safe but also sustainable in the long term. These partnerships will extend beyond property acquisition; we will collaborate with other NGOs, governmental agencies, and community organizations to ensure that our shelters are well-resourced and capable of meeting the evolving needs of the survivors.

By integrating strategic partnerships into our operational model, UREEP aims to build a network of support that enhances the impact of our shelters. Collaborations with local authorities, health organizations, and legal services will ensure that survivors receive comprehensive care that extends beyond the walls of the shelter. We will work with these partners to advocate for stronger protections for survivors of abuse and violence, contributing to broader systemic change that benefits vulnerable girls across Uganda.