RAINN is the charity that needs to be highlighted today. RAINN (Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network) is a nationwide network set up to help those that have been the victims of abuse/violence, and can be a lifeline to connect you with the appropriate resources for you within your own community.
If you (or someone you love) needs help Please call
1-800-656-Hope. (All information is confidential). You may also contact them through
www.RAINN.Org. (all online information is encrypted).
For those of you who are looking to support charities....RAINN is recognized as one of the top 100 charities in America, and was co-founded by Tori Amos. Domestic Violence shelters are greatly underfunded, and if you wish to volunteer, this would be a great place to start.
As a former employee of a domestic violence shelter....GREAT items to donate are personal items and I would recommend cosmetics, as this greatly helps build self-esteem. (and unfortunately, can be a great aid to conceal bruises).
Also....the women that I met quite often had very young children, and having toys on hand greatly helped the children while the mothers sought out the resources available to them within their communites.
**a note about donating toys....All toys should be in GREAT shape....no missing pieces....etc.
Bears/stuffed animals reassure children.
a note about dolls.....ALL dolls should be FULLY clothed.
I sincerely hope that this empowers someone today, and for those of you who may need it...I sincerely hope this is a lifeline for you.
CherryPicker
"because sometimes, I said sometimes, I hear my voice and its been here.......Silent All These Years......" Tori Amos