Family Services of Davidson County becomes The Hattie House
Family Services of Davidson County is changing its name to The Hattie House, marking another significant transition for the longtime nonprofit following changes to its services in recent years.
The organization announced the new name this week, saying it reflects its current focus on crisis intervention while preserving the legacy of Hattie Lee Burgess, whose name has long been associated with the agency's emergency shelter.
The Hattie Lee Burgess Safe House has provided emergency shelter and support for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence and sexual violence in Davidson County.
"The name Hattie has represented hope and refuge for survivors for many years," said April Lawson, director of crisis services for The Hattie House. "As we looked toward the future, it was important to us that we preserve Hattie Lee Burgess's legacy while creating an identity that reflects who we are today. The Hattie House honors our past while continuing our commitment to providing safety, advocacy, and support to those who need it most."
The name change comes after a period of significant transition for the organization.
In May 2025, Davidson Local reported that Family Services planned to close its Clinical Counseling and Youth and Community Services programs effective June 30 of that year. At the time, the organization's Board of Directors cited ongoing financial challenges and said the decision was necessary to protect the long-term sustainability of the nonprofit.
The organization emphasized then that the Hattie Lee Burgess Safe House and crisis services would remain operational.
The closures represented a substantial change for an organization that had previously offered a broader range of mental health, youth and family services. As Family Services narrowed its focus to crisis intervention, the organization said leadership recognized the importance of maintaining its connection to the Hattie name.
Family Services traces its history to 1997, when Davidson County Domestic Violence and Youth and Family Counseling Services merged. By its 25th anniversary in 2022, the organization provided a range of community-based programs and services that included advocacy, counseling, safe shelter and other support.
The transition to The Hattie House reflects the organization's current focus.
The nonprofit now primarily serves individuals and families fleeing or impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and stalking.
Services include a 24-hour crisis line, emergency shelter through the Hattie Lee Burgess Safe House, advocacy and case management, assistance with domestic violence protective orders through 50B e-filing, court and medical accompaniment, community education and prevention programs and referrals to other community resources.
The organization said all services remain confidential.
The new name also brings the organization's public identity more closely in line with the Hattie Lee Burgess Safe House, which remained central to its mission as other programs were discontinued.
"We want our community to know that while our name is changing, our commitment is not," Lawson said. "The Hattie House will continue to be a place where individuals and families can find safety, support, and hope during some of the most difficult moments of their lives."
The organization described the transition as both a tribute to its past and a commitment to its future, saying community members and survivors can expect the same staff, services and survivor-centered approach.
Anyone seeking assistance can contact The Hattie House's 24-hour crisis line at 336-243-1934.
