Commentary: We can end domestic violence
By Kenya Thornton
By Stephanie Gimenze
Domestic violence thrives when we are silent; but if we take a stand and work together, we can end domestic violence. Throughout the month of October, help Eliza’s Helping Hands and its partners welcome to raise awareness about domestic violence and join in our efforts to end violence. Here is what you can do:
*Participate in our Dine Out for Domestic Violence Awareness Month on Tuesday, Oct. 10. The following participating restaurants will donate 10 percent of their net sales on this date to Eliza’s Helping Hands, No Punching Bag and Next Step Ministries. This will go to help us service domestic violence victims and families in our community: 66 Pizzaria Kernersvile, 66 Stratford Road, Court Side Café, Captain Toms, Mad Greek Grill, Oh so Eats, Out West West.
*Donate items: During the month of October, we will have participating churches, listed below, to collect toiletry items that victims may need while transitioning to safety. You can donate through these churches if you attend or you can drop off your donations at our office at 1225 E. 5th St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
Greek Orthodox Church and First Calvery Baptist Church are the churches.
* Donate money: We are always in need of financial resources to be able to help those victims and their families. If you would like to donate, your support is always welcome. Every little bit counts. You can make checks payable to: Eliza’s Helping Hands, Inc.
*Wear purple: Wear purple – the color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month – during the month of October and use this as a way to tell others why ending domestic violence is important to you.
*Speak Out: Talk with a friend, family member, colleague, or neighbor about domestic violence. Talking about domestic violence helps to erase stigma and shows survivors that they will be supported.
*Attend the ribbon cutting for a new community resource center at 233 W. Mountain St., 9:15 a.m., Oct. 16.
*Come to the candlelight vigil at Kernersville Town Hall Courtyard, 6 p.m., Oct. 19.
Kenya Thornton is the founder and Stephanie Gimenez is the executive director of Eliza’s Helping Hands, a local nonprofit that helps domestic violence victims.
