Just as the ribbon-cutting for Genesis Women’s Shelter’s new Outreach Center And Benefit Thrift Store on South Lancaster was taking place last Friday, an Amber Alert was issued on newscasts. A toddler had been kidnapped by her non-custodial father, who had a history of domestic violence allegations.
It seems that the day before Lancelot Dawkins had been released from jail on domestic violence charges and went to his ex-girlfriend’s apartment where he allegedly choked her into unconsciousness and absconded with his 11-month old daughter.
According to Tarrant County District Attorney Sharen Wilson, Dawkins has “violent criminal histories — including various family violence-related crimes — in five states.”
By afternoon, the man had been arrested in New Mexico and the child safely rescued.
All that proves the great need for support for organizations like Genesis to help women trying to escape family violence. Its new South Dallas facility will be providing “advocacy, individual and group counseling, access to childcare while mom is receiving services, and referral to both legal services and emergency shelter, as well as serving as a thrift store allowing Genesis clients to shop for free.”
* Photo courtesy of Genesis Women's Shelter And Support
Jan Langbein says
Thank you MY SWEET CHARITY for again helping us to spread the word about the need and about the Genesis Services. Thank you Jeanne – you are incredible!! XOXOX Jan