Women often escape abuse, injury or death only by fleeing a violent situation. Too often they leave with just the clothes they are wearing.
Handbags for Hope offers a hand to victims of domestic abuse by collecting donated handbags filled with toiletries and a meal gift card for victims seeking emergency refuge.
SWCPD Sergeant Bryan Pendleton is coordinating the college’s first drive to support this cause.
“Most women involved in domestic violence incidents flee their home,” he said. “Many times they don’t carry anything with them because it’s not a pre-planned event. It’s about offering help. You never know who’s walking around here troubled by domestic violence.”
One in five women will be victims of domestic abuse according to studies conducted by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
NCADV research shows that the most difficult part for a victim of domestic violence is escaping. College-aged women between 18 and 24 are most commonly abused by partners.
Donated handbags and toiletries will be collected until October 8 at drop off points across campus, including the 640 building and the Campus Police Department. Donations will be transferred to Battered Women’s Shelters, San Diego County YMCA and Interfaith Shelter Networks.
“I wanted to do something as a department to shed light on domestic violence,” Pendleton said. “There are people walking around not knowing where to get services or that anybody cares. We want to provide them with something they can hold onto that gives theme a sense of hope or recovery, the first step is starting over.”
