NATCHEZ — During the holiday season, it is only natural for a mother to want the best for her child, and the Guardian Shelter of Natchez is trying to help women who were victims of domestic violence do just that.

“I tell the women that come in this time of year, don’t worry about Christmas,” said Donna Miller, director of Guardian Shelter. “You will have a good Christmas here. As mothers, that is what they are thinking about this time of year. It is one of their major worries.”

The Guardian Shelter is a shelter for women and children who were victims of domestic violence, as well as providing a place for the homeless victims of domestic violence.

Miller said during the holiday season, the shelter can be pretty full.

“We generally have a full house at the holidays, either right before or right after Christmas,” she said.

Like many other places, the Guardian Shelter is a non-profit organization, and relies upon the giving of others.

“We always need monetary donations,” Miller said. “Because we are non-profit, we rely on that. We would like to have each child here have Santa Claus and if we could get donations from the community, that would be great.”

The shelter is also looking for items that will help the organization continue to thrive.

“We can always use things like trash cans, sheets and pillow cases. Also things like personal care items and cleaning supplies,” Miller said. “We take any kind of kitchen items, household cleaning items and things for a bathroom or bedroom. We have five bedrooms here, and when women move, we allow them to take bedding and bathroom things.”

Miller said she and the shelter enjoy this time of year, being able to bring holiday cheer to someone who otherwise may not have any.

“For us, it is just a good time of the year,” Miller said. “We enjoy getting it together, being in the community with organizations and it is a great time to be able to help folks.”

Monetary donations can be sent to P.O. Box 1225, Natchez, MS, 39121, and donations can be made at the resale shop on Franklin Street or at Catholic Charities.