SAFE Shelter Center for Domestic Violence Services will mark the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month on Thursday, Oct. 1, with two community events designed to raise awareness, honor survivors and bring greater attention to the impact of domestic violence throughout the Savannah community.

October is recognized nationally as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to remember those whose lives have been affected by domestic violence, support survivors and encourage communities to take an active role in ending abuse.

SAFE Shelter will begin the month with its annual Purple Ribbon Tying at Forsyth Park at 8:30 a.m. Supporters, advocates, and community members are invited to gather in Forsyth Park and help tie purple ribbons around trees throughout the park.

Purple is the nationally recognized color of domestic violence awareness. The ribbons will serve as a visible reminder throughout October that domestic violence continues to affect individuals and families in our community and that survivors are not alone.

“Domestic Violence Awareness Month gives our community an important opportunity to bring an issue that often happens behind closed doors into the public conversation,” said Lee Robbins, CEO of SAFE Shelter Center for Domestic Violence Services. “Every purple ribbon represents our commitment to survivors, our remembrance of those impacted by domestic violence and our belief that everyone deserves to live free from fear and abuse.”

Later that evening, SAFE Shelter will join the City of Savannah for the Lighting of City Hall in Purple in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Beginning at sunset at approximately 7 p.m., Savannah City Hall will be illuminated in purple as a powerful symbol of solidarity with survivors and a public reminder of the community’s commitment to preventing domestic violence.

The lighting is presented in partnership with the City of Savannah and SAFE Shelter Center for Domestic Violence Services.

Purple Ribbon Tying at Forsyth Park
Date: Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Location: Forsyth Park, Savannah

SAFE Shelter invites community members, supporters, and advocates to help tie purple ribbons around trees throughout Forsyth Park to raise awareness of domestic violence and demonstrate support for survivors.

Lighting of Savannah City Hall for Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Date: Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026
Time: Approximately 7 p.m. at sunset
Location: Savannah City Hall

The City of Savannah, in partnership with SAFE Shelter Center for Domestic Violence Services, will illuminate City Hall in purple in observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Throughout October, SAFE Shelter encourages individuals, businesses, and community organizations to help raise awareness about domestic violence, share available resources, and stand with survivors.

Domestic violence can affect people of every age, background, and circumstance. Community awareness plays an important role in helping survivors recognize that support is available and that they do not have to face abuse alone. 

SAFE Shelter provides emergency shelter, advocacy, resources, and support services to victims and survivors of domestic violence in the Savannah area.

For additional information about SAFE Shelter, its programs or ways to support its mission, visit SAFE Shelter’s website or follow the organization on social media.

For more information, please contact Kathryn Bostwick at [email protected] or 912-480-0878.