Wednesday, August 27, 2003
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Wednesday, August 27, 2003 |
Family violence shelter gets makeover from volunteersBy CAROLYN
CARY
The Fayette County Council on Domestic Violence held an open house Sunday to exhibit the complete renovation of its transitional housing program. The house is called the Lighthouse. The program opened in 1993 to accommodate women and their children who have escaped abusive homes. They can stay in the Lighthouse for up to 18 months, and they pay a portion of their income toward their stay. A case manager assists victims in their goal of becoming self-sufficient and able to provide violence-free homes for themselves and their children. The house in use was in need of painting, carpet, and plumbing repairs but due to case-load increase but a decrease in funding, funds were not available. The Square Foot Ministry, in cooperation with the Brooks United Methodist Church's Youth Missions Team, provided materials and labor. After several months of hard work by these entities and individuals who volunteered, the house is now completely renovated. The Lighthouse has served 78 families since opening. The council also provides crisis counseling to any victim of domestic violence or dating violence. There is a 24-hour pager number, 770-929-7529, for immediate assistance. The council also provides free legal advocacy and assistance with obtaining protective orders. A core of volunteers goes into Fayette County high schools each year to present a Teen Dating Violence Prevention program to the health classes. The group is always in need of donations and volunteers. Those interested can call 770-460-1604.
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