“A woman is like a tea bag – you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Heating up coconut oil and a piece of red Crayola crayon on a stove top to make homemade lip gloss would appear to be either a botched craft project, or a woman in dire straits attempting to make herself some beauty products.

Despite appearances, this simple activity of creating something out of nothing has helped to empower residents of an undisclosed domestic violence shelter.

In February, the Myles Singleton Foundation, a (501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping low-income families by supporting social and educational projects, sponsored the featured program “A New Year New You,” along with the Partnership Against Domestic Violence and Mobile Makeover Matters.

During the event, the women were also taught how to make their own jewelry with wire and beads. They were given a makeover class, and makeover kit, along with gift bags filled with beauty products such as lotion, body wash, and body spray.

Nevertheless, it didn’t stop short there. The women were served “Mash Potato Martinis, which looked like a loaded baked potato inside of a martini glass.

The event was held to help feed the spirit and empower the women. This supports MSF’s mission to help build hope for a brighter tomorrow.

Article By: Toynett Singleton