By Jessica Moore

Staff Writer

The New Beginnings Domestic Violence Center recently opened at an undisclosed location in Lewisburg. They have been open since May and have provided a place to stay for women and children in need almost continuously. Crystal Gray is the co-director of New Beginnings with Kim Young the president of the CAD Board.

The New Beginnings Domestic Violence Center offers crisis intervention, temporary shelter, case management, child advocacy, court advocacy, and community awareness. For someone who may be seeking help from those at New Beginnings, they can be reached on their 24-hour hotline (931) 637-7625. Of course anyone who may be in immediate physical danger is urged to call 911.

Originally from Baltimore, Md., Gray moved to Giles County when she was 16. She is a graduate of Giles County High School and of Martin Methodist College. Gray has been helping victims of domestic violence since she was 18 years old. At one point, law enforcement began coming to her for advice on how to help these victims. Gray is also a probation and parole officer.

She began talking with Sean Grant at the First Assembly of God which had a vacant house. With help from Grant and Young, the CAD Board developed. Previously there was not an official shelter for victims seeking help, although certain members of the community were always willing to offer their services, and, in some cases, temporary accomodation.

The domestic violence center operates solely by help from volunteers. Not one member of the staff is paid. According to Gray, they have been blessed with wonderful volunteers and donated items. They have apartments that can accommodate two separate living situations. They can provide living quarters for women with children, or they can mix several single women together. All services offered by New Beginnings are given in strict confidence and free of charge. New Beginnings serves men, women, and children affected by domestic violence. There are many ways to help victims of domestic violence. Those interested in helping may volunteer their time, donate items on their needs list, or contribute financially. New Beginnings Domestic Violence Center is associated with Connelly Dream Center and donations are deductible to full extent of the law.