SHELBYVILLE, Ind. -- An old armory in Shelbyville is about to start its new life as a refuge for women and their children escaping violence at home.

For more than four years, Shelbyville residents David and Kari Farr have been working with community volunteers to renovate the armory into apartment-style units, 6News' Ericka Flye reported.

The Sanctuary of Shelbyville will serve as transitional housing for women and their children who have left an abusive relationship.

"Basically, just making sure they have the skills they need to be independent from the abuser and make a life for themselves," said Randi Tolbert, whose family will run the shelter.

The doors to the facility won't open until later this month, but the need is so great there's already a waiting list.

Nearby Turning Point Domestic Violence Services reports a 20 percent increase in women seeking shelter from abuse.

"Part of that is due to the economic downturn and increase stress that's going on in the homes," said spokeswoman Jessica Schoettmer. "It can be hard for a victim to leave, but they can leave successfully."

The Sanctuary of Shelbyville opens Nov. 15.