PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — For 34 years, Safe Harbor has served victims of domestic violence and human trafficking in Calvert County by providing resources, support and, in some cases, shelter. Safe Harbor is the only domestic violence shelter program in Maryland administered by a health department.
After a comprehensive review of strategic goals, the Calvert County Health Department and Calvert County Government have mutually agreed to transition Safe Harbor to the care of Calvert Safe Housing, effective July 2026. Officials said the decision was made collaboratively as part of a strategic realignment effort.
Safe Harbor staff members have served hundreds of women and children in Calvert County with a focus on empathy, understanding and relationship-building.
“For decades, Safe Harbor has been a cornerstone in our community, providing critical housing and essential support that have empowered hundreds of women affected by domestic violence,” officials said in the release. “Safe Harbor allowed them to stabilize their lives, get back on their feet, and successfully navigate their path to independence.”
Safe Harbor staff thanked the Calvert County community for donating time, energy and supplies to support the shelter over the years.
Shelter Manager Kelisa Gough said the community’s support allowed staff to create meaningful experiences for residents.
“I’d like to thank everyone who we came in contact with for making this place feel like a family,” Gough said. “The unwavering support we received has really been a blessing. With the support we received, we were able to celebrate many memorable moments, bake cakes for birthdays, pull together Thanksgivings, and even have a Santa Claus with presents for Christmas. Even on a small budget, we wanted everyone to feel like they were home.”
Assistant Manager Rhonda Nolan said staff members remained committed to helping residents in every possible way.
“Every staff member had a unique gift that they could share,” Nolan said. “Whether they could make someone laugh in their darkest day, comfort someone in the middle of the night, track down safe housing against all odds, or help rock a baby to sleep while his or her mom packed, all of our staff was dedicated to making a difference in the lives of these ladies, and we never let anyone go hungry or unclothed, even if we had to personally donate to make it happen.”
The Health Department also recognized the dedication and professionalism of Safe Harbor staff and volunteers throughout the transition process.
Staff members recognized included:
- Kelisa Gough, Shelter Manager
- Rhonda Nolan
- Rochelle Yorkshire
- Darlene Praylow
- Engla Gray
- Frances Gethers
- Gurlene Plater
- Sabrina Chapman
- Twanda Jones
- Taniyah Tyler
- Denise Phillips
- Danielle Bowling
“We are deeply proud of what Safe Harbor has accomplished in Calvert County, and we are grateful for the county government’s collaboration and support,” said Dr. Teneza-Mora, Health Officer at the Calvert County Health Department. “We deeply value the dedication of our shelter staff who provided vital safe housing and critical services to so many families impacted by domestic violence. We are working closely with Calvert Safe to ensure a smooth transition and carry forward the legacy of compassion that defined the shelter through the years.”
Officials noted that each minute in the United States, 20 individuals become victims of domestic violence. Nearly one in four women will experience violence from an intimate partner during their lifetime.
Individuals seeking help or referrals can contact Calvert Safe Housing Network at 442-432-5732 or visit www.CalvertSafe.org. Those needing immediate assistance can call the hotline at 844-844-2584.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Calvert County Behavioral Health provides services for individuals of all ages dealing with mental health, emotional or substance use concerns. Anyone needing immediate emotional support can call or text 988 to connect with a counselor 24 hours a day.