I didn't receive the email, but from what you've posted here, the email link directly back to the website (blog). The Owner (Marquetta Breslin) of the site explains WHY she used her business distribution list to attempt to raise money for an individual (Cy). On the website there's a phone number listed for Braids By Breslin as well, so if you want to contact the owner Marquetta A. Breslin about the matter, you can.
Point is, that this particular email doesn't come nameless or faceless or without ways to find out its legitimacy. You have a Contact to inquire with. This is about the same risk as dropping a dollar in the jar at the Grocery counter with the little sick kids face on it or dropping a few bucks to the ladies raising funds for a local shelter while you walk into Walmart. I don't ever really know if they are legit either, I just make my decision then and there if I want to give or not. If you don't give to anonymous people over the web, I can certainly understand that too.
IMO, Marquetta should have written her newsletter as normal and included a blurb about the fundraiser for her abused friend within it. There are local shelters and organizations that are set to help and provide relocation assistance to abused women too.
I'm on the mailing list as well...and I received the exact same email....
