The Rowan House spiritual room

One service that did good business around Christmas was, unfortunately the local Rowan House Emergency Women's Shelter.

Executive Director Sherrie Botten says being busy shows that while strides are being made, the services they provide are still needed.

"We were full," she says. "But people had someplace safe to go. It was probably the busiest year ever for us, we're not surprised because last year certainly was a busy year all year."

She says there are a couple of reasons that they're so busy, the tough economic times and increased awareness about the services they provide.

"I do think it's a combination, we know the numbers are increasing, so sadly, we do know that domestic violence is on the rise," Botten says. "I do want to believe that for us, it's about the awareness around the community so people know where to go to."

She says they're also doing more work in the community which will help increase awareness even further.

Botten thanked the community for its continued support and helping to make a nice Christmas for the families that ended up in the shelter around the holidays.