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PAWTUCKET – In support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, The Mary Kay FoundationSM announced today it is awarding $3 million in grants to 150 domestic violence shelters across the country.

Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center has received a $20,000 unrestricted grant to support local survivors of domestic violence in Rhode Island. This year’s grant contribution brings the foundation’s total investment in its shelter grant program to $50 million.

The Mary Kay Foundation was established in 1996 with the over- arching purpose of supporting issues impacting women. In 2000, the foundation expanded to include ending domestic violence as part of its mission. The foundation is committed to funding the life-saving work of women’s shelters and the annual shelter grant program has helped finance critical needs including emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling and legal aid. All of these resources support women and children as they seek refuge and relief on their journey to an abuse-free life. This year, more than 1,200 organizations applied for the Mary Kay Foundation shelter grants.

“At Mary Kay, we believe in helping women improve their circumstances and live their best lives. One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime and it is our responsibility to support the women’s shelters that aid these survivors,” said Michael Lunceford, president of the Mary Kay Foundation Board of Directors. “At the heart of The Foundation’s work is the shelter grant program, which is actively supported by our independent sales force. We’re proud that our commitment makes such a powerful impact in local communities and in the lives of domestic violence survivors across the country.”

According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, more than 72,000 adult and child victims receive domestic violence services across the United States in just one day. Unfortunately, in the same period of time, more than 11,000 requests for services are unmet due to a lack of resources.

While residing in the safe home, guests are provided with basic needs such as food, clothing, linens, personal items, furniture and household items. Additionally, ex- tensive case management services are provided for all family members through our Residential Team. A clinical counselor is available to families to help deal with their emotional stress and trauma.

Families learn to live without fear and abuse, and work to create a life of peace.

“Being the only shelter in Rhode Island to receive the grant, we are so appreciative to the Mary Kay Foundation. This grant will help so many people in Rhode Island,” said Stephen Heywood, director of development at the Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center.