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The Missouri Foundation for Health is giving a $150,000 grant to the Women’s Crisis Center in Taney County, which is a local non-profit agency that serves victims of domestic abuse. KSMU's Theresa Carter talked with spokespersons and files this report.
The $150,000 grant is a three year grant to be paid in installments beginning in November, and running through 2012. It will provide funds to hire two full-time staff support advocates, as well as provide funds for various services. Julie Johnson, spokesperson for the Missouri Foundation of Health details some of those services.
"This grant will assist in services provided by the shelter such as; a 24 hour crisis hotline, referrals to support services, case management and advocacy for women."
In Branson and the surrounding Taney County area, this domestic abuse center serves women, women with children, and the small percentage of men who are victims of domestic violence. Stephanie Parker, court advocate for the shelter, says a primary function the Women’s Crisis Center serves is to provide housing.
"We basically have individual cabins the families can move into. Some are family cabins, and some are just for single women. We also have a transitional housing program. And what that is, is a long-term process that transitions women who are just getting back into the real world."
The shelter in Taney County relies solely on grants and private donations, and is one of the few domestic violence shelters in Missouri which provides transitional housing. Donations of time and services, such as repair and carpentry, as well as donations of household or office supplies, are always needed.
To contact the Women’s Crisis Center of Taney County, the number to call is: (417) 561-5105.
For KSMU News, I'm Theresa Carter.