For Hometown News
PORT ST. LUCIE - Though Mother's Day is intended to be a joyous occasion for women, thousands of moms will be overlooked on this special holiday because they are forced to live in shelters as a result of domestic abuse or homelessness.
Heartbreaking statistics from the Domestic Violence Resource Center state that one in every four women has experienced violence in an intimate relationship, every day three women are killed by their partners and 74 percent of Americans know a victim of domestic violence.
According to a national study from the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, approximately 25 percent of women are homeless because of violence in the home.
To ensure moms in crisis receive the love and appreciation they deserve this Mother's Day, Two Men and a Truck of Port St. Lucie is hosting a movers for moms collection drive to provide critical gifts to local women staying in community shelters this spring.
This year, the company is working with local schools, such as La Petite Academy, to collect essential and comfort items for women staying at SafeSpace.
The mission of SafeSpace is to offer victims of domestic violence safety, support and education while empowering positive self-direction of life. SafeSpace fulfills this mission by providing emergency shelter and outreach services to individuals whose lives are being affected by domestic violence.
"We are so grateful for this event that will support the multiple needs that victims of domestic violence bring to our shelters in times of crisis," said Jill Borowicz, CEO of SafeSpace.
This spring marks the fifth anniversary of movers for moms. Since its introduction, the program has expanded to 24 states and more than 80 franchises. Last year was the program's most successful year-to-date, with more than 65,000 items collected - including more than 7,500 items throughout Florida - for donation to 50 shelters across 14 states.
This year, the company is seeking to collect more than 100,000 items for moms in need across the country.
In addition to its school partners, the company welcomes local businesses and organizations to join in the effort of bringing relief and comfort to moms in need.
Those interested in supporting local moms in need can visit www.twomenandatruck.com/moversformom to find the nearest participating franchise.