Stories of Hopes
“Before coming to Safe Haven, I had spent 20 years in and out of addiction and prison, searching for something to numb my pain. Losing my youngest son to suicide in 2017 was the breaking point that made me realize I needed real change. I turned to recovery, even while serving time in prison, and found strength in my faith. When I was released, I asked God for guidance, and He led me to Safe Haven.
At Safe Haven, I found more than just a place to stay—I found unconditional love and true inclusion. The staff accepted me for who I was, without judgment, and made me feel valued and supported. Their love and encouragement changed how I saw myself, helping me believe I was worthy of healing and purpose.
Today, I am a nationally certified peer support specialist, using my past to help others find hope and freedom from addiction. I wouldn’t have believed if you had told me a year ago that I would be here, making a difference. Safe Haven changed my life, and now I can pay it forward. If you're struggling and unsure about seeking help, know this—there is hope, there is a place for you, and you are not alone. Safe Haven is proof that recovery is possible, and healing is real.”
— Stephenie Biddles
“Before coming to Safe Haven, I struggled with addiction for 20 years. In December 2022, I surrendered to God, which led me to Clarksville, where I met Sharon. She saw the transformation in my life and offered me the opportunity to work at Safe Haven—a chance to help others facing the same struggles I once did.
I completed a 10-month transitional living program for men, which provided me with the stability and support I needed. The staff made me feel loved, valued, and appreciated. The most meaningful part of my journey has been restoring my relationships with my family and children and building new connections in my community—something I once thought was impossible.
To anyone struggling and afraid to seek help, don’t let fear hold you back. There are people in this world who truly care. I chose to support Safe Haven because I want to give back. God placed this mission in my heart, and I’m grateful to be part of a place that changes lives every day.”
— Zach Farnam
“Before coming to Safe Haven, I struggled with addiction, incarceration, and losing my children. Feeling isolated and unsure of my future, I sought support to rebuild my life. Safe Haven provided the structure, stability, and encouragement I needed, helping me develop life skills, build a strong work ethic, and find a supportive community. Group therapy helped me break free from isolation, and I learned to embrace change as an opportunity for growth.
The staff made me feel valued, giving me a sense of purpose and belonging. Today, I am sober, employed, and mentoring other women in the program. Safe Haven has transformed not only my life but also the lives of many others. To those struggling—you're not alone. There are people who genuinely care and want to support you. Change can be scary, but you don’t have to do it by yourself and Safe Haven is proof of that. I'm forever grateful to be part of this life-changing community.”
— Sandi Bivens
“Before coming to Safe Haven, I had been in prison and was using fentanyl daily. My biggest struggle was feeling like an outsider, disconnected from any sense of belonging. Safe Haven changed that immediately. From day one, I felt like part of a family, surrounded by people who genuinely cared. Beyond drug and alcohol counseling, the most impactful part of my journey was the sense of community. Without those connections, I would have continued to feel lost. Now, three years clean, I realize that while I once expected recovery to be a constant battle, it has become a way of life with the right support.
Safe Haven doesn’t just provide structure—it teaches people how to be responsible, hold down a job, budget, and truly step into adulthood, often for the first time. That transformation is incredible to witness, and it’s why I chose to stay. Working at Safe Haven feels like home. As the Residential Administrator, I help hold women accountable, ensure they stay on track with work and responsibilities, and most importantly, provide a listening ear. To anyone struggling, just take the first step. Change happens one moment at a time, and you don’t have to do it alone.”
— Amie Birdsong