Loose change collected during a recent “Jars in Bars” campaign will pay for 102 nights of shelter for victims of domestic violence.

Michelle Goad, Domestic Violence Services of Umatilla and Morrow Counties board member, said Crabbys Underground Saloon collected the most money. The Hut Restaurant & Lounge and Hamley’s Steakhouse came in second and third in an easygoing competition between bars.

Goad expressed wonder at discussions she had with both men and women at bars she visited during the campaign, held during Round-Up week. The topic of domestic violence stirred deep emotions in people, she said, especially those who’d experienced it or watched others go through it. Goad recounted the story of one young man who teared up, donated his night’s drinking money and left the bar.

“The reception I got was very warm from men and women,” she said.

Cards with domestic violence hotline information disappeared as soon as she put them out in women’s restrooms, Goad said. Some women she talked to came to tears as they related their own stories.

The prevalence of domestic violence may surprise some, but not people such as Goad who know the statistics.

“One in four women will be abused,” she said.

The 10 jars were scattered around town at Whistler’s Pub, Packard Tavern, Hamley’s Steakhouse, Crabbys Underground Saloon, Stetson’s Steakhouse, Rainbow Cafe, Elvis’ Bar & Grill, El Charrito, Big John’s Hometown Pizza and the Hut Restaurant & Lounge.

Jars in Bars was only the first phase of DVS fundraising efforts. In the second phase, fire and police departments in Morrow and Umatilla Counties will compete to see which one can raise the most to help victims of domestic violence. Last year, she said, Tribal Fire came out victorious.

In the final phase of the fundraising campaign, board members will contact individual men.

Goad is ecstatic about money raised so far, and anticipates good response for the second and third phases.

“We want the community to know how grateful we are,” she said.

It costs $12.50 to shelter a woman or child for a night at the shelter.