Local businesses have launched a new fundraiser to help build a new domestic violence shelter in Horry County.
Government officials and law enforcement from across the Grand Strand gathered at Angelo’s Steak and Pasta in Myrtle Beach on Sunday for the announcement.
Several restaurants and businesses in Horry County are now accepting donations for Family Justice Center of Horry and Georgetown Counties to build the shelter. They will post signs with thermometers tracking their fundraising. The Family Justice Center hopes to raise $1.5 million for the new facility.
Currently, a shelter for victims of domestic violence does not exist in Horry County. The closest safehouse is in Georgetown County. According to Family Justice Center Executive Director Vicki Bourus, there are twice as many people from Horry County in that shelter.
“We’re already serving between 45 and 50 domestic violence victims a month, and their children. Not every victim of domestic violence needs a shelter, but when they’re need, it’s critically needed,” she said.
The Family Justice Center hopes to start building the shelter in 2019.
