Safe Homes of Orange County was one of four nonprofit agencies named in the will of Jean Chertock, a former Middletown resident deceased in September 26, 2007. Safe Homes’ share of Chertock’s estate was recently presented to the agency’s executive director, Kellyann Kostyal-Larrier, by Laura Gramazio, a long-time friend of the deceased and a Goshen resident.
Previously unknown to the agency, Ms. Chertock’s legacy will be especially felt at the Safe Homes shelter, where it will be distributed and used to provide for much needed renovations, as well as new furnishings and security upgrades for the Safe Homes shelter.
“We are exceedingly grateful and humbled to be one of four agencies contemplated by Ms. Chertock’s quiet generosity and kindness. Because of her, our residential clients will soon enjoy the quality of life and safety they deserve,” said Kellyann Kostyal-Larrier. A team of volunteers, including Safe Homes Board of Directors, will be painting the agency’s residential facility in early April and complete the renovation project.
In honor and memory of Ms. Chertock, Safe Homes is creating an annual award named after her to recognize caring and generous individuals with a proven passion to the prevention of domestic violence against women and women’s issues in the community.
The Jane Chertock Award will be unveiled and presented for the first time at this year’s Celebration of Hope Dinner in October of 2011.
Observing its 25th anniversary this year, Safe Homes of Orange County offers comprehensive support services for individuals and families affected and displaced by domestic violence, as well as education and violence-prevention programs. For more information about Safe Homes, including the programs and resources Safe Homes can provide, please call 845-562-5365. For HELP, call the Safe Homes 24-Hour-Hotline, 1-888-503-HOPE (4673).
