Due to the extremely cold temperatures in our area having damaged two water heaters at MARY’S House, the shelter for victims of domestic violence is now in need of two new water heaters. The water heaters will also be relocated to the interior.

Kristy Smith-Palmer, the Director of MARY’S House, told The Pickens County Chronicle, “MARYS House has continued to serve Pickens County as well as the entire Upstate of South Carolina since 2008. The first build was started in 2005 and sheltering its first victim in 2008. Many have forgotten about MARY’S house due to the nature of its operation and the need to remain out of sight and out of mind for the safety of those served as well as the safety of those who serve. It’s easy to forget the reason MARY’S House does not stay in the forefront. The purpose is for isolation from violence and from those who perpetrate violence on these victims. MARY’S House never has shut down or closed their doors. They have remained open serving victims since 2008. This recent cold arctic weather that has come in and stayed is not normal.  Even though water was left dripping, to avoid freezing, the freezing weather did damage to the lines of our water heating system that was installed on the exterior walls of the facility at the original build. To avoid this ever happening again, the repairs and replacement of the system will be placed on the interior.”

To donate to MARY’S House, visit their website at maryshouse.com.

January 25, 2025