Miss EHS Pageant Benefits MARY's House

On Saturday, December 1, fifty one students at Easley High School competed for the title of Miss EHS. Kelsey Savannah Day was crowned and Meagan Leigh Haywood was first runner up.

In keeping with tradition, proceeds from the pageant were donated to a local charity.

As all of this pomp and circumstance was happening, EHS students were still mourning the loss of a classmate, Daniel “Gabe” Smith. On August 30, 2012, Gabe, along with his mother (Sandra Smith Thomas), was killed by his step-father in a tragic domestic violence event that ended with the loss of 3 lives.

As a way to remember Gabe, bring awareness to domestic violence in Pickens County, and to save the lives of others, the school chose to donate the proceeds to MARYS House.

MARYS House is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to provide emergency shelter, services, and spiritual guidance to women and children fleeing domestic violence. MARYS House, located in Pickens County, has sheltered and/or provided services to over 500 women and children since opening in October 2008.

A staff member from MARYS House spoke to the contestants prior to the event, educating them about domestic violence and how MARYS House saves lives.

The Miss EHS contestants raised $1,022 for MARYS House by selling T-shirts, key chains, bracelets, and necklaces. MARYS House is not state or federally funded and relies on donations from generous individuals, churches, groups, and businesses.

MARYS House sincerely appreciates the donation and the money will be used to meet the needs of domestic violence victims. For information on domestic violence, how you can help, or how to make a donation, visit http://maryshouse.com or call 855-1708.