Peabody Woman Bridges Gaps For Domestic Violence Shelter

PEABODY, MA – North Shore and South Shore rivalries don't mean much to Elaine Rice of Peabody. Rice heads up the local Daughters of Penelope chapter, which has helped to transform a Brockton domestic violence shelter.

The local chapter of Daughters of Penelope, a worldwide Greek organization, donated money to the Brockton shelter years ago, inspiring the name "Penelope's Place." Since 2008, Rice and Penelope 120, Inc., has helped to raise $150,000 for the shelter. Julia Kehoe, Health Imperatives President and CEO, said Rice's guidance and wisdom have helped turn the shelter from an emergency temporary space, to a warm and welcoming place.

The local Daughters of Penelope chapter recently donated more than $13,000 from their discretionary funds to support domestic violence survivors and their children in Brockton.

"Penelope 120, Inc. and Zelia Chapter #120 are thrilled to support Penelope's Place and the women and children who seek refuse there," said Elaine Rice, President of Penelope 120, Inc. "With this gift, we can continue to ensure the health and safety of families who are fleeing dangerous, and often life-threatening, situations or violence and abuse."

Penelope's Place is a five-bedroom shelter in Plymouth County, and services more than 50 families each year. Families get crisis counseling, health and wellness programs, and legal assistance with restraining orders.

"The Daughter's of Penelope's commitment to helping women and children is unparalleled and we are extremely grateful for their support and vision," said Kehoe. "Together we are working to improve the quality of life for families, increase opportunities for survivors to achieve economic security, and ensure brighter futures for their children."

Image via Health Imperatives