Source: Reuters
The Mary Kay Foundation`s annual shelter grant giving program awarded $3 million in total grants to 150 domestic violence shelters in all 50 states. Each shelter received a $20,000 grant to help combat domestic violence, educate local communities, provide much needed shelter and rehabilitation for survivors and keep shelters open during the current economic downturn. In light of the economy, the Foundation is reinforcing its commitment to help bring an end to domestic violence, especially in a time when donations are down and the need for services is on the rise.
In May 2009, "Mary Kay`s Truth About Abuse" survey of domestic violence shelters across the country revealed some alarming results: three out of four domestic violence shelters report an increase in women seeking assistance from abuse since September 2008, a major turning point in the U.S. economy. The survey data directly connects the downturn in the economy to an increase in domestic violence. Additionally, www.endabuse.org reports nearly one in four women in the United States reports experiencing violence by a current or former spouse or boyfriend at some point in her life.
"The economy is exacerbating domestic violence, and the demand for victim services is up," said Sue Else, president of the National Network to End Domestic Violence. "We applaud The Mary Kay Foundation for stepping up and making this significant investment in life-saving domestic violence services. The Mary Kay Foundation`s contribution will help survivors of domestic violence live safer lives."
