Volunteers say effort for Moss House is more than just a sweet gesture

Jacquie Brown and Betty Lewis were having a great time at the Council for Families in Crisis annual chocolate fund-raiser at Woods Supermarket, Feb. 14.

"We've been doing really well." said Brown.

The Moss House sold chocolates, fudge, cakes and cookies that were all provided by donation.The community responded heartily to the fund-raiser and the donations were abundant.

"The Moss House also has a battered women's shelter, where the proceeds are going." said Lewis.

The Moss House works in conjunction with area businesses such as Loretta's Attic to provide adequate clothing, food and shelter to victims of domestic violence.

The Moss House provides shelter, referrals, legal/court advocacy, counseling, community education, children's services, support groups, education and an outreach office.

The shelter provides services for victims from a broad geogrpahical area -- Barton, Bates, Cedar, Dade, St. Clair and Vernon counties.

The state of Missouri defines domestic violence as something that can be physical or emotional: slappingm pinching, beating, kicking, threats of harm and verbal abuse.

As stated by the Missouri Bar Association, "Violent behavior toward others is wrong no matter who does it. Family members are not excused. If you are in an abusive situation and don't do something to stop it, you may be harming your family."

Martha Sander of the Moss House said that they raised more than $1,200 on Tuesday.

"The money will be used to offset operating expenses to the shelter fund. We had a very successful sale. We appreciate everyone in the community that donated and purchased the chocolates." said Sanders.

The Moss House provides a safe house for women who are under threat of violence.

For more information on the Moss House please call (417) 667-7171 (office) or the crisis hotline at (800) 398-4271.