Safe Inc. of Schenectady is saddened by the passing of Edmund W. Girtler Jr., a remarkable individual whose compassion and commitment to the Schenectady community changed countless lives. Ed’s vision and dedication were instrumental in the creation of Safe Inc. of Schenectady.
As a New York State Trooper, Ed saw firsthand the increasing rates of youth sexual exploitation and human trafficking in the streets of Schenectady – back then known as street prostitution – often coinciding with housing instability. Together with Bob Pierce of Schenectady Inner City Ministry, Inc. (SICM), he spoke with the New York State Assembly to advocate for these at-risk individuals, securing funding through the New York State Department of Criminal Justice and donations. Safe Inc.’s first Executive Director, Delores McIntosh, was hired to develop a program to serve and assist those impacted. In 1985, Project Safe came to fruition and still operates today as our Street Outreach, Life Skills, and Anti-Trafficking Programs. In 1989, our emergency shelter – then known as Safe House (later renamed as the McIntosh House) – opened to serve female clients only, before going co-ed in 1990.
Ed has made a lasting impact within our community, with close to 10,000 individuals being served in some form by Safe Inc. of Schenectady. We are incredibly grateful for his compassion and the way he looked out for those in need. We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends and those who loved him, and will continue to honor his legacy through our work here at Safe Inc.