(Joplin, MO) – Lafayette House is grateful to announce the receipt of a $3,500 emergency grant from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO) to install a new security system at its licensed childcare facility. The urgent need arose after a secruity incident involving an abuser who jumped the facility’s fence and damaged property near the childcare center. Immediately following this incident, the existing security network failed due to its age and could not be repaired, creating a critical safety vulnerability.
The remarkable response time exemplifies trust-based philanthropy in action. After Lafayette House reached to Pete Ramsour, the Joplin Regional CFO affiliate manager, on Monday morning, the request was forwarded to Springfield-based CFO staff who shared it with their colleagues by Monday Afternoon. The emergency grants committee approved the $3,500 grant on Tuesday, and teh check was processed by Wednesday, August 13.
“This incident reminded us how quickly safety situations can escalate for the vulnerable families we serve,” said Susan Hickam, CEO of Lafayette House. “When an abuser breached our security perimeter near our childcare facility, we knew we needed to act immediately to protect the children and families in our care. The Community Foundation’s rapid response demonstrates the power of community partnership when organizations work together to protect those most at risk.”
Lafayette House’s licensed childcare facility serves both client families — those experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or substance use disorders — and children receiving state subsidy support. The new security system, with a total of $5,050, will provide enhanced protection for this vulnerable population and ensure families can focus on healing and recovery without additional safety concerns.
“The Community Foundation of the Ozarks’ emergency response exemplifies the importance of what collaborative partnerships and philanthropy looks like in our community,” said Eli Moran, Chief Strategy Officer at Lafayette House. “Their ability to move quickly when emergencies arise gives organizations like ours the security to know that when a crisis hits, we have partners who understand the urgent nature of serving vulnerable populations.”
The Community Foundation’s emergency grant program demonstrates how philanthropic organizations can respond effectively to urgent community needs through streamlined processes and dedicated emergency funding.
The security upgrade comes at a critical time for Lafayette House, which serves more than 900 people annually across southwest Missouri. The organization provides comprehensive services, including emergency shelter, counseling, advocacy, case management, a 24-hour hotline, childcare support, and prevention education programs.
Lafayette House extends its deepest gratitude to the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, Pete Ramsour, and the emergency grants committee for their swift action in prioritizing the safety of vulnerable families and children in our community.
For more information about Lafayette House’s services, click here or contact the organization at 417.782.1772.
About Lafayette House:
Lafayette House is a private non-profit organization serving adults, children, and families experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, and/or substance use disorders. The organization serves 1,200 people each year from a seven-county area in southwest Missouri.
Reference:
Chelsea Conley, Development Director
Lafayette House
417.782.1772
chelseaconley@lafayettehouse.org
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