The Mary Kay Ash Foundation was established in 1996 with the 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 these resources support women and children as they seek refuge and relief on their journey to an abuse-free life. This year, more than 300 organizations applied for the Mary Kay Ash Foundation shelter grants.

“Mary Kay remains steadfast in its commitment to ending domestic violence. We believe women should be free to live safe, productive lives free from abuse,” said Michael Lunceford, president of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation board of directors. “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. At the heart of the foundation’s work is the shelter grant program, which awards deserving organizations the funds needed to continue to improve their critical life-saving services in support of women.”

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. In the same period, more than 11,000 requests for services are unmet because of a lack of resources.

The mission of the Beaman Home is to provide shelter, education and confidential services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The shelter does this by providing a safe haven, along with supportive services, while partnering with and educating the community.

“The Beaman Home is very thankful for the Mary Kay Ash Foundation funding opportunity,” said Renea Salyer, executive director of the Beaman Home. “Their care in supporting our work with domestic violence victims by empowering women all over to be their best selves allows us to provide great hope and healing for our broken clients. We will use the grant to enhance our programs and services for the communities we serve.”

Applications for the 2024 shelter grant program will be available in January 2024. Visit marykayashfoundation.org for more information, and to view the complete list of 2023 shelter grant recipients.