TMCnet News
While Signs of Economic Recovery Persist, Domestic Violence on the Rise NationwideDALLAS --(Business Wire)-- Though many areas of life are recovering from the economic downturn, domestic violence shelters throughout the United States report that the economy continues to significantly affect battered women and children. While shelters shine a spotlight on the widespread increase in domestic violence survivors seeking help nationwide, they also highlight a substantial decrease in shelter services, funding sources and prevention efforts to assist victims. In addition, shelters report that the abuse is getting more severe, survivors are staying in abusive relationships longer and shelters expect the situation will only stay the same or get worse in light of the economy - according to the fourth national "Mary Kay Truth About Abuse Survey." More than 730 domestic violence shelters across the country were recently surveyed. Detailed national findings from the 2012 "Mary Kay Truth About Abuse Survey" reveal alarming trends in light of the economy's decline since 2008, including:
The survey's overwhelming trends are remarkably similar in each region of the United States - Northeast, Midwest, South and West. Detailed regional findings are available upon request. Sue Else, president of the National Network to End Domestic Violence said, "Society has come a long way in the past few decades, creating more comprehensive services and ultimately reducing the rates of domestic violence. But clearly, the 'Mary Kay Truth About Abuse Survey' shows that much more work needs to bedone." Katie Ray-Jones, president of the National Domestic Violence Hotline added, "Over the last four years, the National Domestic Violence Hotline has received nearly 10,000 more calls for help from survivors of domestic violence and their loved ones. The most requested service from callers is a referral to a shelter in their local community. Unfortunately, the economy has had a devastating impact on local domestic violence shelters. Many have had to reduce their capacity, reduce services and, in some instances, have closed their doors." Anne Crews, Mary Kay Inc. Vice President and The Mary Kay FoundationSM Board Member noted, "The 'Mary Kay Truth About Abuse Survey' represents more than staggering numbers. It signifies lives in the balance. Domestic violence shelters across the country can mean the difference between life and death, yet the economy continues to plague shelters and the women and children they serve. The truth about abuse is that survivors and their children continue to feel the negative effects of the economy in profound ways. This crime is a community issue. Individuals and businesses must get involved in efforts to educate, prevent, and eventually end, domestic violence." Mary Kay's Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Programs Mary Kay Inc. and The Mary Kay FoundationSM have continually been leaders in domestic violence awareness and prevention programs. In light of these survey findings, Mary Kay and The Mary Kay Foundation have been responding with the following programs:
*Available while supplies last About The "Mary Kay Truth About Abuse Survey" The fourth "Mary Kay Truth About Abuse Survey" polled 733 domestic violence shelters across the United States about domestic violence and the economy since September 2008, a major turning point in the U.S. economy. The study was conducted online between Feb. 7-17, 2012. Comprehensive 2012 survey findings summarize national and regional results. Past surveys from 2009-2011 are available at: www.marykay.com/survey. About Mary Kay Mary Kay is one of the world's largest direct selling companies with more than $3 billion in annual wholesale sales worldwide. Mary Kay was founded in 1963 by Mary Kay Ash with the goal of helping women achieve personal growth and financial success. Mary Kay remains committed to enriching women's lives, and today more than 2.4 million people of all backgrounds are enjoying the advantages of being Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants. Mary Kay's high-quality skin care and color cosmetic products are sold in more than 35 countries around the world. To learn more about Mary Kay, visit www.marykay.com. Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50259743&lang=en
|