The Fayette

County Council on Domestic Violence held an open house Sunday to exhibit

the complete renovation of its transitional housing program. The house

is called the Lighthouse.

The program

opened in 1993 to accommodate women and their children who have escaped

abusive homes. They can stay in the Lighthouse for up to 18 months, and

they pay a portion of their income toward their stay. A case manager assists

victims in their goal of becoming self-sufficient and able to provide

violence-free homes for themselves and their children.

The house in

use was in need of painting, carpet, and plumbing repairs but due to case-load

increase but a decrease in funding, funds were not available.

The Square

Foot Ministry, in cooperation with the Brooks United Methodist Church's

Youth Missions Team, provided materials and labor. After several months

of hard work by these entities and individuals who volunteered, the house

is now completely renovated.

The Lighthouse

has served 78 families since opening. The council also provides crisis

counseling to any victim of domestic violence or dating violence. There

is a 24-hour pager number, 770-929-7529, for immediate assistance.

The council

also provides free legal advocacy and assistance with obtaining protective

orders. A core of volunteers goes into Fayette County high schools each

year to present a Teen Dating Violence Prevention program to the health

classes.

The group is

always in need of donations and volunteers. Those interested can call

770-460-1604.