Mary Kay Advocates for Domestic Violence Survivors in Sacramento
Sacramento, CA, March 7, 2011 – Mary Kay Inc. and members of the Mary Kay independent sales force, in partnership with the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence (CPEDV) and the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA), are coming to the California State Capitol to raise awareness with lawmakers about the importance of domestic violence program funding. As part of the annual CPEDV Legislative Action Day on March 7, 2011, participants will educate California lawmakers about crucial counseling, education and prevention programs and the importance of state support for these life-saving services.
“Educating legislators is an important part of Mary Kay’s commitment to ending domestic violence,” said Mary Kay Vice President of Government Relations Anne Crews. “Together, with CPEDV and CALCASA, we can make a difference and help educate lawmakers about the critical needs among organizations and individuals who serve on the front lines addressing this crime.”
Domestic Violence Outlook
According to the national “Mary Kay Truth About Abuse Survey,” domestic violence shelters indicated the economic downturn has increased demand for services. Shelters report the ability to raise funds and provide services will be hampered in 2011. Due to the economy, the survey also revealed:
- 88 percent of domestic violence shelters expect their overall situation to worsen or remain the same in 2011.
- Three out of four domestic violence shelters (77 percent) report an increase in women seeking assistance from abuse.
- 51 percent of shelters nationwide note the abuse is more violent now than before the economic downturn.
“Through the hard work and collective efforts of advocates, victims of domestic violence and sexual assault are able to rebuild their lives and create secure futures for their families,” said CPEDV Executive Director Tara Shabazz. “We know that shelter services save lives, and lawmakers need to understand their importance for the safety of California families.”
Mary Kay has an ongoing commitment to lobbying for good and working to prevent and end domestic violence. Beginning in the 1980s, Mary Kay Inc. lobbied state and national lawmakers advocating for insurance coverage of mammograms. Over the last 15 years the company has lobbied for the federal Violence Against Women Act, its reauthorization and subsequent appropriations.
About Mary Kay
Mary Kay is one of the world’s largest direct selling companies with more than $2.5 billion in annual wholesale sales worldwide. Mary Kay was founded in 1963 by Mary Kay Ash with the goal of helping women achieve personal growth and financial success. Mary Kay remains committed to enriching women’s lives, and today more than 2 million people of all backgrounds are enjoying the advantages of being Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants. Mary Kay’s high-quality skin care and color cosmetic products are sold in more than 35 countries around the world. To learn more about Mary Kay, visit www.marykay.com.