APPLETON, Wis. (Jan. 27, 2026) — Kalico Forest, a nonprofit organization committed to protecting, empowering and uplifting women and children impacted by domestic violence, is honored to share that Family Safety Network (FSN), a domestic violence shelter in Driggs, Idaho, has chosen to name its new emergency shelter cottage “Kalico Cottage.” This heartfelt tribute recognizes the work of Kalico Forest, which was founded in memory of Greenville, Wis. native, Kali Randall, her 10-month-old son Zeke Best and her unborn daughter Freya Best, whose lives were tragically lost to domestic violence in 2023.
Kali’s untamed mountain spirit led her to build a life and start a family in Victor, Idaho, nestled near the majestic Teton Mountains. A talented silversmith, she founded her own jewelry company, Kalico Forest, which has since been transformed into a nonprofit organization. This heartfelt endeavor now honors Kali and her children’s lives while supporting women facing domestic violence.
“We are profoundly honored and deeply moved by Family Safety Network’s decision to name its new emergency shelter cottage Kalico Cottage,” said the Randall family. “The idea of Kalico Cottage becoming a real, breathing sanctuary in the valley Kali, Zeke and Freya loved so much brought tears and hope in the same breath. This captures the overwhelming emotion we feel; tears for the irreplaceable loss that still aches daily, two years after their lives were taken and a fierce, unwavering hope that this cottage will stand as a grounded haven where survivors find the safety, dignity and fresh beginnings Kali always embodied.”
Kalico Cottage will be designed to be a sanctuary of healing, incorporating earthy elements like reclaimed wood interiors, herb gardens for mindful tending and soft, clay-toned spaces that reflect the quiet strength of the Tetons. These thoughtful details create a calming environment to help soothe the body and mind in the wake of trauma.
In tribute to Zeke’s childlike wonder, the cottage will feature a dedicated craft area where children can find solace and simply be. This inviting space will include soft corners for quiet reflection, vibrant play areas filled with toys and books and the comforting presence of trained counselors who listen without judgment. Through activities like painting, singing and storytelling, children will have the opportunity to process their unseen trauma in workshops led by compassionate therapists, channeling Zeke’s innate curiosity and spirit.
“Kalico Cottage evokes the nurturing spirit of Kali’s creative heart and the cozy, earth-rooted home she built in the Tetons. It will be a place where mothers can exhale without fear, children can play without looking over their shoulders and families can root themselves in kindness once more,” said the Randall family. “Kali’s light was never meant to fade and in this sanctuary bearing her name, her resilience, Zeke’s wonder and Freya’s promise will greet every soul who enters, whispering: You are safe. You are seen. You are held. We are grateful beyond words for the start of this partnership and for Family Safety Network’s tireless commitment to turning shared sorrow into enduring refuge.”
Kalico Forest is making strides to work with Northeast Wisconsin domestic abuse shelters like Harbor House, where they have donated Freya’s Bloom Boxes. These boxes provide diapers, soft garments, soothing teas and handwritten notes for encouragement to expectant mothers who find themselves in a domestic abuse shelter. Additionally, Kalico Forest is trying to expand its reach to work with other area domestic abuse shelters to provide resources for victims of domestic violence closer to where the Randall family resides in the Fox Valley. To learn more about Kalico Forest, its initiative to help victims of domestic violence or the beautiful lives of Kali Randall, Zeke Best and Freya Best, visit kalicoforest.org.
Photo of Kali Randall, Zeke and Freya Best. Photo courtesy the Randall family.
