Handbags For Hope Raises $5,800 For Safe Passage Shelter

Tuesday, October 28, 2014 at 7:28 AM

Press release from Church on the Rock Batesville

Photo provided by Church on the Rock Batesville. (Batesville, Ind.) - Handbags for Hope 2014 proved to be another success for Safe Passage, Inc. thanks to the strong support of many area businesses and individuals. “It was another spectacular job by the small but mighty women’s ministry of Church on the Rock in Batesville,” according to Safe Passage Executive Director Jane Yorn. “Safe Passage is so very blessed to have the spiritual and financial support of this amazing group of women.” Church on the Rock Co- Coordinators (from left) Carla Thomas and Paula Flint, this month presented a check to Yorn on behalf of the areas only domestic violence shelter, for nearly $5,800. “The most anticipated part for the children was the opening of the Christmas gifts,” Flint said. “Each of the children received school clothes and supplies and toys. All of the mothers received a woman’s daily devotional Bible and much needed clothing to help with the start of their new homes.” The money was raised during the annual handbag auction in Batesville. It was attended this year by 200 people, with donations from 115 businesses, churches and media organizations from throughout Ripley County, Flint said. There were 129 total bags filled with goodies that were donated and all were auctioned off. “Our ministry partners from COTR brought Matthew 25:35 to life for the women and children at the shelter, for whom they literally fed, clothed and welcomed in during the Christmas in August celebration,” Yorn said. “It provided a wonderful opportunity for those whose lives are filled with fear, pain and chaos to learn where true peace can be found.” A not-for-profit organization, Safe Passage provides domestic violence intervention and prevention services. Since 2011, the facility experienced a 55 percent increase in the number of victims served. It experienced a 124 percent increase in the number of children living in the shelter. In 2012, 96 children lived at Safe Passage, receiving safety and stability, therapeutic programming, educational support and much love while their mothers worked toward building a better life of hope and self-sufficiency. Safe Passage primarily serves Dearborn, Franklin, Ohio and Ripley counties. For more information or to donate to Handbags for Hope 2015, contact the church at (812) 934-5192.