Hospitality House receives $20,000 grant from Mary Kay Foundation

Media release: Hospitality House for Women, Inc. has been chosen to receive a $20,000 grant from the Mary Kay Foundation as part of the organization's annual $3 million national domestic violence grant program. Hospitality House for Women is one of 150 domestic violence organizations participating in the program. The grant will be used to financially support single women who are victims of domestic violence, and raise awareness among youth, teens and college students in our community about dating violence as a preventative measure.

"This grant is such a blessing to Hospitality House in a variety of ways," said Ashley Chapman, Family Violence Assessor. "Not only does it make up for a deficit in funding this year but also gives us hope and strength to continue what we do. Domestic violence is not going away and deserves very serious attention. Programs to help battered women and their children require a lot of resources. That's why we are so thankful the Mary Kay Foundation is helping us help families in Rome, and Floyd County.

Domestic Violence Outlook

According to the second "Mary Kay Truth About Abuse" national survey conducted in March 2011, domestic violence shelters indicate the economic downturn has increased demand for services. Shelters also report, the ability to raise funds and provide services will be hampered into 2012. Due to the economy, the survey also revealed:

80 percent of domestic violence shelters nationwide (more than three out of four) report an increase in women seeking assistance from abuse, and most attribute this to financial issues.

76 percent of domestic violence shelters (three out of four) indicate their funding has decreased.

65 percent of women in shelters can't find employment due to the economy.

56 percent of shelters note the abuse is more violent now than before the economic downturn.

"In light of the economic downturn and alarming increases in domestic violence, The Mary Kay Foundation's mission is more critical than ever before. Hospitality House for Women has helped so many women and their families in the Rome area. We know they will use these funds to benefit even more domestic violence survivors and their children and help end domestic violence," said Jennifer Cook, The Mary Kay Foundation board member.