For Immediate Release
April 20, 2011

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

Local Man Comes Forward

ERIE - Over the weekend a video caught a man stealing mulch from SafeNet's Big Back Yard Children's Garden. Late yesterday afternoon the person came forward and admitted he took the mulch and has offered to make a donation to the project. SafeNet officials are currently talking with the man about what type of donation he wants to make to the project. In addition because of the news stories related to thief, Mr. Greg Heintz, owner of West Erie Landscaping LLC, has offered to replace the stolen mulch. According to Linda King, Executive Director, "The Big Backyard has been a success thanks to many volunteers and donors. I am happy that the person who took the mulch has come forth and said that he will join the donors to the project."  

SafeNet's Big Back Yard Childrens Garden will be filled with an array of plants, trees and flowers that will allow children who are 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. The completion date for the Big Backyard Children's Garden is scheduled for June of this year.

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.