Advocates to End Domestic Violence receives $20,000 grant

Advocates to End Domestic Violence has received a $20,000 grant from the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation to further its work in helping domestic violence survivors and their families.

The foundation considers domestic violence one of the most devastating issues facing women and children in the United States.

Lisa Lee, director of Advocates, said she applied for the grant about one month ago and received a call Thursday morning telling her it was approved.

"We were thrilled," Lee said. "It's always nice whenever large companies are able to give back (to communities)."

Lee said Ann Dankworth, a volunteer, is also a Mary Kay Cosmetics representative. Dankworth urged Lee to apply for the grant.

"She said go for it," Lee said. "She's been very supportive of us and has given us samples and leftover stock items for our clients."

Lee specified the money would be used for shelter uses, particularly a vehicle. She said the shelter is in desperate need of a vehicle to drive clients around town for doctor appointments, job interviews and such.

"We will probably have to raise a little bit more money, but we need a vehicle that will sit seven or more passengers."

Lee said it's not often Advocates gets such an opportunity to spend a donation on something that is sometimes considered a luxury.

"In the state of Nevada, transportation is necessary. But, several of us (Advocates workers) are taking part in learning the new transportation system in Carson City. We will try it out Tuesday."

The foundation has awarded shelter grants each year since 2000. The grants go to deserving family-violence shelters and safe houses that need additional financial support. All the shelters submitted a grant application to the MKACF, specifying their needs and the projects any grant would help fund.

The grants are approved according to needs and are part of a $3 million commitment to shelters and safe houses in all 50 states in support of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month - October.

- Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.