Sarah's Friends

06/01/2026

Many men are taught from a young age that emotional expression is something to avoid. Messages like “boys don’t cry,” “be strong,” or “handle it on your own” can shape how men understand vulnerability, often leading them to suppress emotions rather than process them.

Over time, this stigma can become deeply internalized. It may show up as silence during moments of distress, difficulty naming emotions, or feeling shame for needing support. For some men, this can also increase risks of isolation, substance use, anger outbursts, or untreated depression and anxiety.

The truth is: emotional pain does not disappear when it is ignored; it often intensifies in silence.

Seeking help is not a failure of strength. It is a sign of self-awareness and courage. Talking about emotions, reaching out to trusted supports, or engaging in counseling are healthy, proactive steps toward healing.

Men deserve spaces where they are not judged for being human. They deserve relationships where they can be honest about struggle without fear of being dismissed or minimized.

Let’s challenge the stigma that tells men they must carry everything alone. Real strength includes vulnerability, connection, and support. 💙

05/27/2026

Wishlist Wednesday 💙

Our toiletry and housewares closets help ensure that survivors and their families have access to basic necessities during times of transition and healing. Community support plays a vital role in keeping these shelves stocked and ready when someone reaches out for help.

This week, we are especially in need of:

Paper towels

Laundry Detergent

Fabric softener

These everyday essentials help support personal care, dignity, and comfort for those we serve.

If you’d like to help, items can be purchased directly through our Amazon Wishlist or dropped off at Sarah’s Friends.

Amazon Wishlist: https://a.co/7yz6IGj

Thank you for continuing to show up for survivors in our community. Your generosity helps make sure no one has to navigate difficult moments without support. 💙

05/25/2026

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Every person deserves support, compassion, and space to heal without shame or judgment.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, we want our community to know that struggling does not make you weak, it makes you human. Whether someone is navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, stress, or burnout, support is available and healing is possible.

Checking in on yourself and others can make a bigger difference than you realize. 💚

05/25/2026

In observance of Memorial Day, Sarah’s Friends will be closed on Monday May 25th.

Today, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. We are deeply grateful for their sacrifice and hold their loved ones close in our thoughts.

Their courage will never be forgotten. ❤️🤍💙

We will resume normal hours the following day.

05/22/2026

Every survivor’s voice matters. 💜

At Sarah’s Friends, we regularly ask the individuals we serve to share feedback about their experience so we can continue improving the support and services available to our community. While these responses are completely anonymous, they often remind us why this work matters so much.

Today we’re sharing a reflection from someone who participated in our services. Their words represent the strength, courage, and resilience we see every day.

✨ “It’s been helpful to discuss my innermost thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. ”

If you or someone you know needs support after experiencing crime or trauma, compassionate help is available.

📞 Call or text: 419-636-7272
💬 Messages are confidential
🤝 Services are free of charge

You are not alone. Support, healing, and hope are possible.

05/18/2026

What a night! The 7th Annual What the Duck? Rubber Duck Race at Stoney Ridge Winery was a huge success — all 300 ducks adopted and critical funds raised for survivors through Sarah's Friends. Thank you to everyone who came out, volunteered, and supported our community. Read the full recap and highlights: https://wix.to/smoifkw

This past weekend, supporters gathered at Stoney Ridge Winery for the 7th Annual What the Duck? Rubber Duck Race benefiting Sarah's Friends, and what a night it was! https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18N6U6eaPC/With perfect weather, a steady breeze across the pond, and an incredible community turnout...

05/18/2026

Trauma often involves a loss of control over one’s body, safety, or decisions. This loss can leave lasting effects on confidence, trust, and self-worth. Healing involves restoring a sense of agency and choice.

When people are given options and their boundaries are respected, the nervous system begins to feel safer. Choice helps rebuild trust in oneself and in others.

🗝️ Asking permission before offering help honors autonomy
🗝️ Respecting boundaries reinforces emotional safety
🗝️ Allowing survivors to guide their own healing builds empowerment

Choice helps people reconnect with their inner sense of control.

05/16/2026

Still plenty of time to come out and support Sarah’s Friends! Stoney Ridge Winery is donating $1 from every flatbread sold and we still have our 50/50 going until 8:30 pm!

05/16/2026

Congratulations to our winner, Abram Zimmerman, who purchased one of our upgraded ducks! Keep that in mind for next year, friends!

Thank you to our community and all our sponsors for your endless support! We couldn’t do the work we do without you!