Jen Levine returned to her hometown of Franklin, Massachusetts, in 2018 with a mission. As CEO and co-founder of SAFE Coalition, she’s leading a community-driven effort to provide judgment-free education and support for individuals and families affected by substance use disorder and mental health challenges. SAFE’s journey began in 2015 when Jen recognized a critical gap in services for those impacted by the opioid epidemic. “My friends and family had absolutely nowhere to go,” she recalls. With a background in social work, she reached out to her state representative, Jeff Roy, and joined forces with cofounder Jim Derick to create SAFE. 

The grassroots initiative has since evolved into a comprehensive support network for West-Central Massachusetts. SAFE’s unique approach centers on listening to the needs of the community and creating resources accordingly. “Our programs, like the community diaper bank and support groups such as Family Recovery, Sober Moms Club, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, and Postpartum Support, were all developed through community requests,” Levine explains. The organization is entirely donor- and grant-funded, ensuring that all services remain free to those in need. 

The impact of SAFE is undeniable. In 2015, there wasn’t a single substance use program within a 17-mile radius of Franklin. Today, the organization has provided assistance to residents in 43 Massachusetts communities. One of its most significant achievements is its youth diversion program—the only one of its kind in the state—offering early intervention and guidance for young people at risk. SAFE has also distributed over 6,000 doses of Narcan in the past two years, potentially saving countless lives. However, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Levine acknowledges that stigma, particularly around Narcan distribution, was a major hurdle in SAFE’s early years. “When we first introduced Narcan, many people were hesitant about its role,” she says. “But we knew the lifesaving potential was worth fighting for.” Over time, through education and advocacy, the community’s perception has shifted, embracing SAFE’s unwavering commitment to harm reduction and recovery. 

For Levine, this work is deeply personal. Now raising her own children in Franklin, she envisions a community where anyone can access help without fear or judgment. “I want my kids to see that in our family, we look out for others. We listen, support, and take action,” she says. It takes courage to ask for help and is certainly not a sign of weakness to seek support when you’re in need. Looking ahead, SAFE continues to expand its reach. This spring, the organization will host its 3rd annual SAFE Gala: An Evening of Giving. The event, featuring keynote speaker Jake Haendel, will raise essential funds to sustain SAFE’s programs. Haendel, a longtime friend of Levine’s, shares his inspiring recovery story, which he recently chronicled in his top-ranked podcast, BLINK. Residents looking to support SAFE can attend the gala, volunteer, donate or simply seek help. “At SAFE, you’ll never be alone,” Levine emphasizes. 

CONTACT SAFE COALITION 

Visit www.safecoalitionma.org 

Email info@safecoalitionma.org 

Call 508-488-8105. 

SAFE is located at 31 Hayward St., Suite 2C in Franklin.