HAVEN - Healthy Alternatives to Violent Environments

06/05/2026

🏳️‍🌈 June is Pride Month 🏳️‍🌈

This Pride Month, let’s gently open the conversation about the barriers LGBTQ+ survivors may face when seeking support. You’re not alone—there is a community that cares.

Some reasons LGBTQ+ survivors may hesitate to reach out include:

🌈 Worry about being outed by an abuser

🌈 Fear of not being believed or taken seriously, especially if their relationship isn’t seen as “typical.”

🌈 Concerns that their gender identity or pronouns won’t be respected

🌈 Past hurt from being misgendered

If you or someone you know is navigating these feelings, please know that support is here for you, just as you are. 🏳️‍🌈

Please call our 24/7 crisis line at (209) 577-5980 for support.

We believe you. 🌈

06/03/2026

Please share.

06/02/2026

Over 60% of LGBTQ+ people have experienced abuse, which can happen in any relationship, regardless of gender or sexuality. 🌈

Intimate partner abuse affects all communities at similar rates.

LGBTQ+ individuals may be less likely to recognize or report abuse or find affirming support.

Abuse is never mutual—it's not just fighting.

Abuse is about one person using power and control, not stereotypes or mutual conflict. Self-defense is not abuse.

Abuse can happen in any relationship.

No matter your relationship or what you call your partner, abuse can happen.

Abuse isn’t about size or strength, but about someone misusing power and control.

All survivors deserve support—abuse is serious, no matter who the abuser is.

If you are a survivor, there is support available at HAVEN. Please call our 24/7 crisis line at (209) 577-5980.

We believe you. 🌈

05/31/2026

🎉✨ Mark your calendars for July 11, 2026! The Gallo Center for the Arts transforms into a stage of pure magic for What a Drag Season Four! 👑🌈

HAVEN is over the moon to celebrate our long-standing partnership with What a Drag—since Season One! ✨👑 Get ready for Season Four, packed with sparkles, sequins, feathers, fishnets, and fabulous energy! Expect nonstop joy, celebration, laughter, and acceptance in the most welcoming space ever. Authenticity, love, and community shine here—join us for a night of pure transformation and fun! 🥳🌟

Here is the link to purchase tickets: https://bit.ly/4ucyMZ3

Let’s fill the seats with love and laughter and make this a sold-out celebration! 🎊💖

05/29/2026

At HAVEN, we’re often asked how to notice signs of abuse and when to offer help. If you’re worried about someone you care about, remember they might not be ready to accept support right away. 💛 Be gentle and patient. Let them know you care and are there for them, whenever they’re ready. Your kindness can make a big difference. 🤗

Here are a few signs that someone might need support. Everyone is unique, so you might notice just one or a few of these. 🌱

* Changes in behavior (more or less engaged, distant, withdrawn)
* Not being allowed to go anywhere alone
* Isolation from friends and family
* Appearing fearful or hyper-vigilant (alert and on edge)
* Appearing agitated or quick-tempered
* Changes in attendance/academic performance/motivation within classes
* Changes in appearance
* Physical signs (bruising or cuts to the face or body, difficulties walking or sitting)
* Attempts to hide injuries (sunglasses, heavy makeup, scarves, long sleeves out of the norm of their usual dress, or inappropriate for the weather)
* Changes in sleep patterns or appearing tired
* Increased alcohol or substance use
* Depression, hopelessness, or increased anxiety
* Financial difficulties or more money/material possessions than usual

Remember, these signs can appear for lots of reasons—not just abuse. If you notice several changes and want to talk, we’re here for you. 💬

Please reach out to our 24/7 crisis line at (209) 577-5980 if you have any questions or need support.

You’re not alone, and we believe you. 💖

05/27/2026

What is a safety plan? 🌱 At HAVEN, we talk about safety plans to help each person feel secure. A safety plan is a simple, flexible guide made just for you. Your plan can change as your needs change, because safety looks different for everyone. 💛

A safety plan is a list of steps and information that fits your situation. 📝 It helps you get ready for different moments, like talking to loved ones, handling tough feelings, and finding support. 🤝

* Know a few ways to leave your home safely. 🚪 Practice how you would get out if you needed to.
* Pack a small bag with medicine, important papers, cash, and spare keys. 🎒 Hide it well or give it to someone you trust. 🤗
* Think of a safe place to go if you decide to leave. 🏡
* Set up a simple signal with a friend or neighbor so they know when you need help. 📱 This could be a special text or a small change around your home. 🌸
* Pick a code word to use with family or friends if you need them to call the police. 🗝️
* If you are safe, reach out to your local domestic violence agency to learn how they can support you. ☎️
* Make a safety plan with your children, too. 👨‍👧 Show them where they can hide, remind them not to step in, and teach them how to call 911 and share your address. ❤️

If you or anyone you know needs this type of support, please call our 24/7 crisis line at (209) 577-5980. We are here to help, and we believe you. 🤍

05/25/2026

Holiday Closure!

05/25/2026

Read about how to support HAVEN this month!

🌟 How to Support HAVEN this May: Get Involved & Make a Difference! 📚💜 🎉 Exciting news! HAVEN has teamed up with Friends of the Modesto Library for an amazing Scholastic ONLINE Book Fair! 🗓️ Mark your calendars: May 14-27, 2026! Help us spread the joy of reading! 📖✨ You can ...

05/25/2026

Update on HAVEN's Upcoming Poetry with Purpose. Read here: https://bit.ly/4tOGNC8

05/24/2026

Please read the latest about HAVEN's Advocacy Department here: https://bit.ly/4v4s2wm