House of Refuge hopes new tax credit boosts donations

SIKESTON — As the number of domestic violence incidents increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for shelters, such as the House of Refuge in Sikeston, is at it’s peak.

However, with many avoiding large gatherings due to the pandemic, many fundraising opportunities for shelters like the House of Refuge are being canceled, leaving a need for funds. Now a new tax credit hopes to encourage more giving.

Brian Menz, board member with the House of Refuge, said the tax credits assist donors who contribute money from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021, by allowing them not only a charitable contribution deduction but also a tax credit for 50% of their contribution on their Missouri tax return.

“This means a donor contributing $100 could receive $70 in tax benefits, of course depending on their individual tax situation,” Menz said. “The tax credit is not only available to individuals but also most business entities. Donors should consult their tax advisors to determine their actual tax savings.”

The tax credit is limited to the donor’s tax liability in the year of the donor or $50,000 per taxpayer with an excess carried forward for up to four years. Contributions must be $100 or greater and are limited under the program. Tax credits will be granted to the donors on a first-come basis with applications received within 12 months of the donation date.

Menz said he hopes the tax credits make it more appealing for people to donate, by giving donors a chance to multiply the effect of their donation.

“By utilizing the tax credits, a donor that normally contributes $25 can contribute $100 to the Shelter efforts while potentially still only being $25 out-of-pocket after the benefit from the tax credits and tax deduction,” Menz said.

The tax credit for the shelter comes at a time when many groups are seeing reduced funding because of the lack of fundraising opportunities. But Menz and the board hopes the credits will be an increased reason to donate.

“This is the perfect time for assistance by the State of Missouri,” Menz said. “Like every other charity, we are competing for donations from generous citizens. The pandemic has limited our ability to fundraise in our normal efforts and causes a strain on the shelter to cover its expenses.”

Plans are being finalized for an online fundraiser and new T-shirts are being sold for fundraising efforts but the need for money is greater than ever as the shelter operating expenses have risen due to increase sanitation efforts to keep the Shelter safe.

The shelter has also seen an increase in those needing assistance. In 2018 there were 628 incidents of domestic violence reported to the police in Scott and New Madrid Counties. Current studies are reporting the number of domestic violence cases have been increasing since the pandemic.

“The pandemic has caused widespread strain in economic and domestic situations of those in the area,” Menz said. “We have weekly encounters with victims looking to escape from their moment of crisis. The stress that the pandemic has placed on the general welfare of the entire country has only caused greater pressure on already difficult situations. The shelter is there to assist those in need to empower them to return to normal life.”

To donate to the House of Refuge, visit: https://www.sikestonhouseofrefuge.org/donation-form.html. The shelter will also have additional support opportunities on the House of Refuge Facebook page.

Victims of domestic violence needing help are asked to call 911 or the hotline at (877) 633-3843.