For Immediate Release
April 13, 2011

Contact:    Rick Liebel
                Public Relations and Development Director
                814 455-1774 Ext. 234
                814 881-6530 cell

Development of SafeNet's Big Back Yard Continues

ERIE - On Saturday, April 16th beginning at 9:00 am volunteers from across the community will come together to resume construction of SafeNet's Big Back Yard. The garden will be filled with an array of plants, trees and flowers that will allow at risk children, victims or witnesses of domestic violence to connect to the textures, smells and beauty of nature. A climbing and crawling area, messy materials area and tricycle track are just a few of the many garden activities. Children will be able to play and interact with, as well as learn, grow and heal, from a safe and secure natural setting, where kids can simply be kids.

SafeNet was chosen as the beneficiary organization for the 2010 Roar on the Shore Bike Rally and the proceeds have gone directly to the construction of SafeNet's Big Backyard Children's Garden. Along with General Electric, Northwest Savings Bank and many other individual and corporate donors and supporters are making the first of its kind project in the City of Erie a reality. Target date for completion is scheduled sometime in June.

SafeNet is not a homeless shelter, but a safe and confidential place specifically for men, women and children who are victims of domestic violence.  From every city and township in the area, victims come to SafeNet seeking support, safety and shelter from physical abuse and threats of violence occurring at home.  After more than 30 years of providing shelter and many other supportive services, SafeNet knows first-hand that there is hope and there is help. SafeNet is Pennsylvania's oldest continuous running domestic violence shelter.

PLEASE NOTE: For interviews with SafeNet's, Executive Director or any staff member of SafeNet, contact Rick Liebel, Public Relations and Development Director at 455-1774 extension 234 or email at rliebel@safeneterie.org.