XENIA — Family Violence Prevention Center of Greene County (FVPC) is launching a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign to recognize October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Residents can visit the FVPC website at www.violencefreefutures.org and click on the “Power of the Purse” to donate and share the campaign on social media.
According to FVPC officials, the purse serves as a symbol of financial freedom. Proceeds will support FVPC efforts of teaching victims about establishing financial security.
“One of the most common forms of domestic abuse involves controlling a victim’s finances and therefore ultimate freedom. Financial abuse is a mighty way to control someone. Ninety-nine percent of domestic violence victims share that financial abuse and control was used in their relationship,” Harmony Thoma, FVPC counselor and community relations coordinator, said.
The Health Path Foundation has promised to match dollar for dollar raised electronically up to $5,000.
The campaign will continue throughout the month of October.
FVPC will also host “Purses and Pastries” at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26 at Christ’s Church, 3770 Upper Bellbrook Road, Sugarcreek Township.
“FVPC invites people of all ages to attend and learn more about the freedom included in a purse and the lack of freedom most victims live with, which is also reflected when they lack certain components such as money, working cell phone, keys, bank cards and personal care items,” Thoma said.
Tickets for the luncheon are $35 and must be purchased at fvpcpurseevent.eventbrite.com. Ticket purchases will also be matched as a part of the Health Path Foundation agreement. Support through sponsorships can also be given through the Eventbrite site.
FVPC is a United Way Partner Agency, a contract agency with the Mental Health & Recovery Board of Greene County and is accredited by the Council on Accreditation.
