Earlier this week domestic violence survivor Sherynne Smith bravely shared her story with Mercury readers.
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On Thursday she launched her fundraiser for Carrie’s Place at Thursday’s Maitland Business Chamber breakfast.
In her speech to chamber members, Ms Smith talked about the fundraiser and urged people to get involved.
But something that struck a chord right across the room was her bravery to speak out about what happened to her and be a voice for those who can’t.
“I cannot remain silent,” she told the crowd. “I have to stand up and do something about this.
“Many people are unable to speak, so I’m speaking for them.”
Ms Smith spoke about how domestic and family violence affected so many people.
She said it hurt women, men, children, victims, perpetrators and families, and put a strain on businesses, emergency services, healthcare and more.
The fundraiser she launched was called ‘All Sorts’, because “all sorts of people from all sorts of backgrounds experience all sorts of domestic and family violence and abuse and all sorts of people want to help our most vulnerable people in need of safety, housing and a happy life”.
The campaign involves a trivia night on October 21 at Maitland Park Bowling Club, barefoot bowls, mini golf and barbecue on November 5, which will also be held at the bowling club, and a Bandfest on November 11 at the Grand Junction Hotel.
The fundraiser includes a raffle, with almost $3000 in prizes up for grabs. There will be also be a Christmas giving tree at Maitland Park Bowling Club from October 21 to December 15 for people to donate toys and non-perishables to Carrie’s Place.