Merryman House Expands in Paducah and Murray!

After several years of hard work and dedication, the Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center is finally seeing a $4.2 million housing project for domestic violence survivors and their children in Murray and Paducah come to fruition.

Merryman House supporters, law enforcement and other officials gathered at the site on Monday, Nov. 1, for the groundbreaking ceremony. That’s, l-r, Merryman House Director Vonnie Hays-Adams (LOVE HER!), Kentucky Domestic Violence Association’s Economic Empowerment Director Mary O’Doherty (I’m sure I’d LOVE HER! too, if I’d met her), Lynn Chrisman of the Kentucky Housing Corporation, David Ritchay, Director of Housing, Production for the Housing Partnership and Calloway County Judge-Executive
Larry Elkins.

There are many reasons why those being abused find it difficult to escape violent relationships, and for those who do, finding affordable, safe housing is a major obstacle. Many end up moving back in with their abuser. These new housing complexes, Vonnie says, will be a huge help to survivors living in Calloway and McCracken Counties.

The project consists of eight townhouse apartment units in Murray and another 12 on the Merryman campus in Paducah, making for a total of 20 new housing opportunities. Kentucky Housing Corporation made the $4.2 million project in Murray and Paducah possible with tax credits, federal grants and a low-interest loan from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

The founder of Merryman House, Merryman Kemp, was seated on the front row during the ceremony. Rock on, Merryman, rock on!

There are plenty more ways to support Merryman House. Don’t miss out on the Saturday, Nov. 20 Groceries for Good. And there’s the Tuesday, Dec. 14 BPW Holiday Auction for the shelter, too.

Here’s the shelter’s wish list for the holidays:

Pillows, White Twin Sheets, White Wash Cloths/Towels, Dryer Sheets, Laundry Detergent, Dishwasher Soap, Baby Shampoo/Lotion, Deodorant, Hairbrushes/Combs, Diapers/Pull Ups, Women’s New Underwear (all sizes), House Shoes, Food (non-perishable), Baggies/Storage Bags, Toilet/Facial Tissue, Alarm Clocks, Gift Cards, Postage, Paper Plates, Gas Cards, Pre-Paid Phone/Credit Cards and Furniture.

Cash donations always accepted, plus you can turn in your old cell phone, regardless of carrier or style.

For more info, please call Richard, 270.217.3966, or Tammie, 270.448.8066.