June was Elder Abuse Awareness Month. Elder abuse is a silent problem that robs seniors of their dignity, security, and—in some cases—costs them their lives. Approximately one in 10 Americans aged 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse. Some estimates range as high as five million elders who are abused each year. One study estimated that only one in 24 cases of abuse are reported to authorities.

We can only accomplish our mission and operate our agency with the help of our dedicated community and volunteers. These caring individuals give from their hearts as they assist us with a myriad of activities. Please enjoy some of the highlights from this month.

Our Outreach Department shares a message of safety and hope within the community. Often thought of as a private issue, domestic violence (DV) is, in fact, a social, business, and health priority that impacts our entire community. Our Community Education program uses storytelling, lectures, and interactive lessons to change societal attitudes and beliefs, end the stigma associated with DV, and help communities learn to identify and support victims.

When a survivor of domestic violence comes to the shelter, it’s because her life is in danger. Often because of circumstances that are beyond her control, she and her children walk through our doors with very few personal belongings. During their stay here, we provide all the essentials she and her children need until she can provide these items for herself and her family. Those essentials include backpacks and school supplies. This month we have a donation drive underway to collect enough of them to meet the needs of children at the shelter and those served by our transitional housing, counseling and legal programs.

There are FOUR ways you can help:

1. Shop Locally and Drop Off at 1401 Airport RD, Conroe TX 77301 Attn: Siomara

2. Shop our Amazon Wish List (https://rb.gy/u5m6f) and ship items direct to us 1401 Airport RD, Conroe TX 77301 Attn: Siomara

3. Donate Money Direct Online at https://mcwctx.org/get-involved/donate-online/

4. Host your own back to school drive with your friends, family or community group.

81 Victims Accessed Emergency Shelter

72 Received Legal Representation & Advocacy

32 Transitional

Housing Residents

152 Received Individual

& Group Counseling

72 Presentations Reached

1,536 Community Members