Chambana Sun

Rep. Thomas Bennett (R-Pontiac) recently visited Safe Journeys, an organization that helps domestic and sexual violence survivors in LaSalle and Livingston counties.

"Glad for the opportunity to visit (Executive Director) Susan Bursztynsky … at Safe Journeys in Streator," Bennet wrote on Facebook. "Safe Journeys assist victims and children of domestic violence. Thank you Susan, Josh and your entire team for all you do to help families put their lives back together! God Bless you!"

According to its website, the nonprofit agency was started in the late 1970s by two women who saw individuals in abusive and dangerous living conditions and established “First Step” — eventually renaming itself “Safe Journeys” in 2018.

“Everything we do is victim-led,” Heather Steele, a community and prevention educator for the agency, said to the IV Leader in November 2021. “We believe that victims should have the right to make their own decisions, especially because abusers seek to take away that control from a victim. Empowerment is a central theme when we work with survivors, as well as being trauma-informed so that we don’t cause any more harm.” 

Safe Journeys offers a variety of services including court and medical advocacy, a 24-hour support line, counseling, a shelter, case management, and education.

Another way the agency supports victims is by hosting fundraisers. Shaw Local reported Safe Journeys’ “Color Run” was scheduled for June 25, but was rescheduled for Aug. 6 at 8 a.m. at Twister Hill Park in Strator. Registration for the run costs $25.

In a July 25 Facebook post, the organization shared information about the change to the national suicide hotline, to raise awareness of the issue.

“As of July 16, a new mental health service is available in the United States. Dial or text 988 to be connected to @988Lifeline.

“This is a 24/7, free, confidential support line for those in crisis. If you visit their website, you can chat with a crisis counselor through their site. There are services available specifically for veterans, Spanish-speaking folks, and those that are deaf or hard of hearing. If you are struggling, you don't have to do this alone. Support is available. Please reach out.”

For more information about Safe Journeys, call 815-673-1555.

Bennett ran unopposed in the Republican race for District 106 according to the Peoria Journal Star. He'll be running unopposed in the general election in November.