Maitland residents wore White Ribbons like badges of honour on Wednesday to show they support the campaign to stamp out domestic violence.
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Karen Peckham and Elizabeth Richards from women’s refuge Carrie’s Place said the local support for White Ribbon Day was uplifting.
Carrie’s Place set up stalls all over the city to sell White Ribbon merchandise and talk to people about the campaign to rid the community of domestic and family violence.
“There has been so much interest,” Ms Peckham said.
“We have had men coming up and saying they are completely against violence against women.
“We have even had some people sharing their own stories about domestic violence.”
White ribbons have become the international symbol for the elimination of violence against women and White Ribbon Day,on November 25, marked the start of 16 days of activism.
For those at the coalface of domestic and family violence in the Hunter, White Ribbon Day was a opportune time for public awareness and a chance for the community to take ownership of the problem.
“Men seem to be taking ownership of the campaign, but it really has to be a community effort,” Ms Peckham said.
“If something is going on next door, we will tell people.
“It is about saying no to violence, saying it is unacceptable.”
Carrie’s Place has provided domestic violence services to families in Maitland for more than 30 years.
It offers crisis accommodation, counselling, support programs, advocacy and education.
For more information visit www.carriesplace.org.au.
Carrie’s Place received two substantial donations on White Ribbon Day to support the important community service.
The directors of Jennings Print decided to donate a percentage of their November turnover, a whopping $4000, to kick-off a long-term relationship that includes the gifting of any printing required by the group.
The business has committed to injecting an impressive $25,000 over five years into domestic violence prevention and the organisations that help families in crisis in the Hunter Region.
Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison gave $500 to help the refuge.
Carrie’s Place welcomes donations of money, gift vouchers, non-perishable food items and personal care products.
Phone 4934 2585 to help.
