HistoryFounding and Evolution of Safe & Sound
Founding and Evolution of Safe & Sound
In 1973
Pioneering Child Abuse Prevention in San Francisco
Fifty years ago, in 1973, Dr. Moses Grossman, former Chief of Pediatrics at San Francisco General Hospital recognized a critical need for community involvement in combating child abuse. At that time, no organization in San Francisco provided community-based programs to address family’s needs in this way. As a result, he created the San Francisco Child Abuse Prevention Council. This led to the development of the TALK Line, a 24-hour crisis and counseling hotline. Both programs, Child Abuse Council and TALK Line worked tirelessly to prevent child abuse and neglect, promote healthy families, and support children's mental health.
In 1982
The Child Abuse Prevention Society (CAPS)
And its Auxiliary, in partnership with the Child Abuse Council and the TALK Line Family Support Center, was founded to raise resources and public awareness to prevent child abuse. Safe & Sound partners to create the first-ever Greater Bay Area Child Abuse Prevention Council Coalition.
“TALK Line has helped me and my family so much. The classes and support group have gotten me through some rough times.”
Parent
In 1987
The Child Abuse Prevention Society (CAPS) purchased a restored firehouse at 1757 Waller Street to unite Child Abuse Council and TALK Line—two agencies under one roof.
Built in 1895, Engine Company No. 30 occupied this large two story frame firehouse with quarters for 27 firefighters until 1917. Chemical Engine Company No. 5 and truck company No. 12 resided here also before it closed in 1956.
The firehouse was used as a private residence until 1987 when it was purchased by the Child Abuse Prevention Society and renovated. Since that time it has housed the programs of the San Francisco Child Abuse Prevention Center.
In 1998
The Child Abuse Council and the TALK Line officially came together to form the San Francisco Child Abuse Prevention Center. Over the years, TALK Line expanded its services and evolved into the TALK Line Family Support Center, becoming part of the Family Service Agency of San Francisco.
SFCAPC hosted its first Blue Ribbon Luncheon
The first annual luncheon was held at the Fairmont Hotel on April 24, 1998 to raise additional funds for The Center and to increase awareness about child abuse prevention and education. Bay Area's leading news anchors, Dennis Richmond and Cheryl Jennings, served as the guest emcees. This event helped raise the visibility of the SFCAPC, and its history of child abuse prevention and effectiveness. 2024 will be the 27th anniversary of this beloved annual event.