At the Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center, we stand ready to advocate and support
survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) and celebrate their courage to flee to our domestic
violence shelter in pursuit of safety. Today, we also celebrate our Kentucky legislature and their
commitment to creating a safe Commonwealth by sustaining our life-saving shelter services
amid national uncertainty.
The statics of domestic violence in the Commonwealth are among the highest in the nation.
Locally, the numbers tell a similar story. In calendar year 2023, the Merryman House Domestic
Crisis Center served 792 victims, provided 11,933 bed nights of shelter, supported housing
stabilization of 96 clients, responded to 505 crisis calls, and provided 7,130 meals to survivors.
These services reflect a fraction of the comprehensive advocacy and support services the
Merryman House offers to those fleeing domestic violence, but demonstrate the critical role
the organization plays in supporting the overall safety net of the Purchase Region. Recent
funding cuts at the federal level threatened that safety net.
In response to that threat, our elected officials acted boldly, and under the leadership of
Representative Steven Rudy, demonstrated the power of partnered action to change
communities and lives. The General Assembly continues to show its support for domestic
violence shelters as they work to address growing demand for services and the increasingly
complex needs of survivors. The increased funding earmarked by the legislature for this
life-saving work will ensure the ability of our shelter programs and others across the state
to serve survivors.
Thanks to Representative Rudy and all our legislators, the recent biennial budget bill passed
with enough funding for Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center to continue providing 24/7
comprehensive, trauma-informed services to survivors and their children residing in the
Purchase Region of west Kentucky. Leader Rudy’s leadership saved lives, and as a result, we will
continue the sacred mission of saving, building and changing the lives of those affected by
domestic violence not only today…but every day to come.
With Gratitude,
Mary E. Foley, PsyD
Executive Director
Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center