ST. LOUIS — As Mary Ann Owens reached her third year as CEO of the Women’s Safe House, she realized something was missing. This house did not feel like a home. So, she picked up the phone and started asking the community for help.
“It showed that the St. Louis community is so giving,” says Owens. “We were talking to strangers and every single one answered me and wanted to be part of it. They were here for 3 or 4 weekends donating their time, their treasure.”
And just like that, the Women’s Safe House…became a home.
“When she entered the suite for the first time, she said ‘Oh my goodness I have never ever had anywhere like this to stay for me and my kids,’” says Aja Buie, Director of Residential Services.
The Lawrence Group alongside several other designers, architects and volunteers came together to transform these suites into welcoming, warm, places that are full of love. The Women’s Safe House empowers women and families to rebuild their lives free of domestic and sexual abuse through emergency services, education and advocacy. Now, these newly renovated homes are opening up their doors to change even more lives.
Show Me St. Louis' host, Mary Caltrider, alongside 2 other judges, had the opportunity to explore these new suites and vote under several different categories!
While they selected suites for several different categories such as most colorful or most inspiring, every suite left them feeling the love.
“If you wake up in a positive environment and go to sleep in a positive environment it helps you to have a positive day,” says Buie.
These suites are the first step to showing women and their families that they are not alone. There are some remaining suites needing renovations. Learn ways you can help by visiting here.
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