Our number one priority is to provide a safe haven (shelter) for men, women and children that are victims of domestic violence. I am sad to report that our  shelter reached its capacity some time ago. It is not only our duty but also our responsibility to provide an alternative safe place for every victim that calls. Many times this means relocating a family to a new city or state. I always think about how difficult it must be to give up your home and move into a shelter, but relocating may mean giving up your family, friends, church, school...everything that is familiar to you. As the adults struggle to survive in this environment, one can only imagine the effect it has on the children.
     Our needs are great as the shelter provides not only protective housing, food, clothing and transportation but also a 24-Hour crisis line. We are blessed to have volunteers, relief workers and interns that assist us in providing these services. I am especially blessed to have Francis Butler and Linda Derrick who are also shelter managers, and Mary Eliz Nelms who has been a long-time  and much appreciated relief worker.
     As I enter my 10th year at the shelter I see how much we have progressed with the many new programs and resources we provide, but we continue to do this with the same limited shelter space. The ever growing number of victims of domestic violence shows the great need for a larger shelter. Educating the public about domestic violence has been the key to greater community awareness...awareness we hope will soon lead us to the "light at the end of the tunnel".  IT TAKES A COMMUNITY TO BUILD A BETTER SHELTER!