MADISON, Wis. – Attorney General Josh Kaul today announced Safe at Home, an address confidentiality program for crime victims, has entered its second year and continues to be used by victims.

“Victims of crime should have the option of keeping their addresses confidential,” said Attorney General Kaul. “Thanks to the Safe at Home program, hundreds of Wisconsinites have been able to.”

Safe at Home is an address confidentiality program for victims of acts or threats of abuse or for those who fear for their safety. The program offers a legal substitute address that participants may use for all purposes, instead of disclosing their actual address, which provides a measure of security when victims need it most.

The program was created through 2015 Wisconsin Act 356, legislation authored by Senators Scott Fitzgerald and Jennifer Shilling, Representative Chris Taylor, and former Representative Joel Kleefisch.

“For survivors of domestic abuse, stalking and human trafficking, safety is always a top concern,” said Senator Jennifer Shilling. “Things that most families take for granted – like paying a utility bill, enrolling a child in after school activities or applying for a job – create potentially dangerous situations for many survivors. I’m glad that Safe at Home is in its second year of protecting individuals from violence and helping survivors move forward with their lives.”

“The freedom to feel safe at home is a critical component to helping survivors rebuild their lives,” said Senator Scott Fitzgerald. “I’m proud to have been a part of sponsoring this bipartisan measure that provides protection to survivors of domestic abuse, stalking, and human trafficking. It’s great to see the impact that Safe at Home has had for Wisconsin families.”

“We all know someone who has been a victim of domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking or human trafficking. Indescribable fear and anxiety are a significant part of their daily lives which often continues even after leaving their abuser. The Safe at Home bill helps victims by providing peace of mind that their address is protected, and they are safe in their own home. As a co-author on this bill, I am incredibly proud of the progress that has been made in the last two years for survivors and their families,” said Representative Chris Taylor.

Since April 1, 2017, Safe at Home has enrolled nearly 800 people in the program, most of whom are still active participants today. Over half of the enrolled households include children, and the program has reached individuals and families in 52 counties.

Safe at Home serves victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, child abuse, and other victims who are afraid for their physical safety or the safety of their child or legal ward. For more information, visit www.SafeAtHomeWI.gov.

Those interested in applying for the program should call 1-800-446-6564 for more information and a referral to a local service provider for safety planning and assistance completing an application.

April 7-13, 2019 is National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.