Both Maitland Council and Maitland MP/Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jenny Aitchison have registered drop off points for the ‘It’s in the Bag’ campaign, which encourages people to fill an old handbag with sanitary, beauty and hygiene products.

The handbags are passed on to women suffering domestic violence and homelessness this Christmas, a time which traditionally sees a surge in domestic violence rates.

The concept was founded two and a half years ago in Brisbane by Rochelle Courtenay to provide help to homeless women and those fleeing domestic violence.

In the first week of the initiative, Ms Aitchison said she had been overwhelmed by the number of bags donated at her office – 120 so far, including a large donation by local parents group Babes and Picnics.

“I’m extremely grateful to the local community for the support they’ve given to this year’s ‘It’s in the Bag’ campaign; it shows we live in a caring and generous community,” Ms Aitchison said.

“It’s nice to be able to reach out to people in our own backyard who need help and support.”

The campaign runs until December 2. Bags can be dropped off at East Maitland Library on Garnett Road, Maitland Library on High Street, Rutherford Library on Arthur Street, Thornton Library on Taylor Avenue, and Ms Aitchison’s office on 34 Church Street, Maitland. 

More information is available from sharethedignity.com.au.