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An animal sanctuary in Austin is providing a refuge for animals and humans. Jamie Wallace-Griner started Safe in Austin, a local animal sanctuary as a home for animals that would be euthanized in most cases. But, the sanctuary is also a refuge for humans with disabilities, special needs, history of trauma, and mental health issues.

Wallace-Griner has created a safe space for animals and humans. “We have animals that are blind or deaf, with diabetes, cerebral palsy, deformities, missing limbs, thorns. broken… they’re all part of our family. “ Celine Wulms shared the story of her daughter, Harper, meeting a turkey named Priscilla on the farm that was born with a “lucky claw” and realizing the similarities between animal and human.

Wallace-Griner echoed the meeting, “There is something absolutely magical about watching a child with differences come up here and say, ‘They’re like me,’” said Wallace-Griner, 40. “When you see Harper holding Priscilla’s lucky hand with her own lucky hand, it does so much for her heart.”

Learn more about Safe in Austin below:

Source: Safe in Austin/Youtube

Wallace-Griner started the sanctuary after experiencing the special bond her autistic son Jackson shared with a dog named Angel. “Angel gave my son confidence and strength beyond anything I was able to do as a mother,” she says. “We have seen a dramatic difference in a matter of weeks.”

The animals now live on a 10-acre ranch. According to Wallace-Griner, there are now “20 dogs, 14 cats, eight horses, 32 goats, four rabbits, three turtles, one parrot, four turkeys, lots of chickens, 18 pigs and four cows” on the farm.

Safe in Austin currently accepts donations to help with the cost of veterinary and food costs for the animals. But the refuge is a special place for many and volunteers and the Griners are working hard to keep it a safe, accessible place for everyone. “We don’t care about the choices you’ve made in the past, how you look, who you like or what you eat. We’re focusing on no judgment at all, ”Wallace-Griner said.

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