The Meridian Star
MERIDIAN — A program on the services by The Care Lodge was presented by Executive Director Leslie Payne at the February meeting of the Decatur Woman's Progressive Club. The club met in the fellowship hall of Clarke-Venable Baptist Church.
Payne explained that the traditional services of a domestic violence shelter continues to be needed and will be needed in the future. However, the face of domestic violence will change radically in the future.
Statistics relating to teen dating violence were presented and indicate that such activity is becoming more and more prevalent. Teen harassment, especially via the cell phone, is also becoming a major problem, Payne said.
While funding for Care Lodge has decreased by 12 percent, services continue to be provided. During February, staff members would speak to 1,500 eighth- and ninth-grade students in the nine counties served by the shelter.
Decatur Woman's Progressive Club presented a monetary donation to Care Lodge.
Jeanette Thrash was selected as the Club's Woman of the Year for 2009 and her qualifications will be submitted so that she will receive further consideration for GFWC/MFWC Awards.
Theresa Buntyn presented a brief overview of reports for 2009. The club's 40 members participated in 186 approved programs by providing 12,089.95 volunteer hours and $64,894.80 in financial contributions to various projects. Both the volunteer hours and financial contributions were an increase over the past year.
Ann Burkes requested that the Day Family Arboretum on the campus of East Central Community College be approved as a club project so that hours volunteered or funds contributed could be used in reporting. The club approved the recommendation.
Jeanette Thrash reminded members that March 2 is Read Across America Day. Ann Burkes encouraged club members to participate in a community food drive sponsored by Curves, March 6-20.
Dianne Smith distributed handouts on heart healthy foods and Merita Cherry provide material relating to safety.
• Submitted by Lois Cooper, reporter.
