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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

Gov. Kay Ivey recently awarded $1.27 million to eight agencies that provide professional care and assistance to victims of child abuse and neglect across Alabama. One of those agencies, Owen’s House, is based in Shelby County.

Of the $1.27 million awarded, Owen’s House received $200,307. Laurel Teel, the executive director of Owen’s House, gave her thoughts on what the donation means to Owen’s House.

“It’s very significant,” Teel said. “It makes up a huge part of our budget. Our budget is about $500,000 a year and so $200,000 of that is a huge chunk for sure. That helps us pay our salaries for our direct services providers here at Owen’s House.”

The funding from Ivey is significant for Owen’s House considering the organization faced federal funding cuts last year. While the funding from Ivey doesn’t alleviate the cuts, Teel added that this grant gives Owen’s House financial flexibility while they continue to fundraise for their cause.

“We were anticipating for this funding cut that we received,” Teel said.

Teel added that the federal funding cuts Owen’s House received affected how they run the organization.

“This past year has been all hands on deck,” Teel said. “It definitely has hindered our growth. We are one of the top five in case volumes for the state, so we see a lot of kids. We know that Shelby County is continuing to grow and with that growth comes the need for more services, and the lack of funding has hindered our ability to keep up with that growth.”

Despite the challenges faced, Teel recognizes the good in the Shelby County community and has seen them come through for Owen’s House.

“The community is a huge support,” Teel said. “Whether it’s providing snacks and juices for our kids that come here or participating in fundraising events, our municipalities have all been very supportive this year.”

Teel added that April is an important month for Owen’s House.

“Child Abuse Prevention Month is in April,” Teel said, “so check out our Facebook and our Instagram during that month. It’s a big month of fundraising and awareness for us, so stay tuned for that.”

While Owen’s House continues to face federal funding cuts, the money granted from Ivey will continue to help them serve abused youth in Shelby County. For more information on Owen’s House, visit Owenshouse.org.