The organization now known as Safe Refuge began in 1988 and was known as the Substance Abuse Foundation (SAF) for most of that time. We have earned a reputation of excellence during our two-plus decades – serving individuals in Southern California who are struggling and have few options at a most difficult time in their lives. We have always been known for our service to the under-served  and with our new name we continue along this path of SAFE REFUGE.

Nothing else has changed – the same dedicated individuals are operating Safe Refuge and the same valuable programs are available.

Our new name was chosen after many months of reflection on just what our organization is all about. We changed our name to reflect our broadened scope of service beyond only substance abuse treatment and recovery. Indeed, helping men and women face their challenges without drugs or alcohol remains our primary focus, but we offer much more, providing a full continuum of care often culminating in employment. And we believe our new name gives all of our audiences – clients, government funding agencies, community partners, donors and sponsors – positive feelings of inspiration and hope. As our new tagline says: Hope. Change. Success.

We hope you agree that clients who come to us, indeed, find a Safe Refuge.