Lexington-based nonprofit provides survivors at BRASS with self-care day
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Residents at the Barren River Area Safe Space were treated to a day of self-care and luxury thanks to the My Beautiful Life Project.
On Thursday, those at the shelter, who are survivors of domestic violence, were provided free sessions with professionals in hairstyling, manicures and massages. The children enjoyed glitter tattoos and face painting.
Flowers and desserts were available for everyone as well.
The My Beautiful Life Project is an effort by Ukrainian immigrants from the Lexington area who wanted to do something special for survivors.
Jennifer Leeds, director of development for B.R.A.S.S., said, “We thought it would be a wonderful day for them to relax and just have a spa day that they didn’t. They could forget their troubles for a little bit and focus on themselves.”
Yelena Litvin, cofounder of My Beautiful Life, said, “One said, I’ve never been touched positively, so I’d prefer not to get a massage. And then she watched other people get a massage, and then she said, actually, I do want a massage. Others have said, I didn’t know I could be this beautiful.”
The event allowed participants to relax and enjoy a sense of normalcy. The Barren River Area Safe Space serves around 300 survivors of domestic violence a year while providing support for around 3,000.
Their 24-hour crisis line is 1-800-928-1183.
