The community is united in wanting to eradicate domestic violence.
In our community of Logan that we know, we suffer, and we want to make a difference. Many want to know what they can do to help make the societal change ending domestic violence.
Last week I joined Julia McKenna from Friends with Dignity (FWD) and Daniel Sutton from Grand Plaza Shopping Centre to launch the ‘Style Your Sanctuary’ campaign, which is asking people to donate a pillow or gift.
Their aim is to add some creature comforts, and a little style, to the homes where those displaced by domestic violence are taking shelter.
Grand Plaza is helping by giving the first 500 people who donate a new pillow or gift to Friends with Dignity a $20 gift voucher.
You can keep the voucher or donate it to FWD. While at the Plaza, Julia showed me pictures of a house she recently transformed.
Volunteers at FWD never get to meet the people they help, but they do learn about their circumstances so they can add a personal touch.
The ‘make over’ was for a solo dad who had been living in his car, and was being reunited with his young children.
Julia made an extra effort to make the children’s room feel special.
She also knew that Dad wanted to teach his children to fish, so she located two kids’ fishing rods for a memorable Christmas.
When the house was revealed to the father he couldn’t contain his tears – his new house and their lives had been transformed.
I don’t know what his two young children will remember of their domestic violence situation or indeed of having to be homeless with their dad, but I hope when they are tucked into their bed with fresh pillows and a cover chosen by Julia, or when they get those fishing rods at Christmas they will remember the Queensland community cared about them.
We care about them.
You can find the FWD donation box near the customer service counter at Grand Plaza.
If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic violence call DVconnect Womensline on 1800 811 811 or Mensline 1800 600 636.