Sponsored Content
SAFE | CARES Drop-in Manager
Siobhan Cook, human trafficking lived experience expert, serves as the drop-in manager for SAFE CARES under the incredible direction of Susanne Crane. A SAFE program, CARES is the only drop-in center for exploited youth in Central Texas. CARES provides trauma-informed, survivor-led case management and advocacy while establishing a safe space at their drop-in center for the youth to be youth. Cook’s lived experience, in collaboration with the expert staff, informs the many services and offerings of the Drop-In center to ensure youth have a safe space to navigate their challenges. Cook knows her clients are the experts of their own experiences. Her goal is to bridge the gaps in services to support their unique needs and goals. She aims to educate and inspire creative approaches to services by establishing relationships and elevating survivor voices. Locally, Cook hosts training opportunities that inspire proactivity in supporting sustainable survivorship efforts.
2 Comments
I met Mrs. Austin in NYC when she was a tap dancer, we moved back to Texas soon after. Noone is perfect, but she is a clear example of what prayer, hardwork, and determination can do. I knew her when she was rebuilding her life and knowing what she’s been through, it’s great to see that she hung in there. From watching her teach, conduct business, fight addiction, PTSD etc I know she’s a warrior. I believe she’s perfect for this position and I know she will change lives.
While it is commendable that SAFE CARES aims to provide trauma-informed and survivor-led services, I am deeply concerned about the decision to have Siobhan Cook in a leadership position at the Drop-In Center. I have personally experienced significant harm caused by Ms. Cook’s actions, which resulted in legal trouble, homelessness for myself and my child, and emotional and financial distress—none of which she has taken responsibility for or shown any remorse.
The fact that Ms. Cook is now in a role advocating for vulnerable and exploited youth, when she has a history of causing harm without accountability, raises serious questions about the integrity of SAFE CARES’ commitment to truly safe, ethical, and empathetic leadership.
While “lived experience” can indeed inform valuable work, it is critical that those experiences are paired with accountability, growth, and demonstrated empathy for the harm caused to others. Ms. Cook’s unwillingness to address or atone for the harm she caused me makes her unfit to serve in a role where vulnerable individuals are depending on responsible, trauma-informed care.
I urge SAFE CARES to reconsider their staffing choices, especially when those individuals have harmed others in ways that contradict the very mission of their organization.