In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, the Domestic Violence Intervention Program and Rape Victim Advocacy Program (DVIP & RVAP) is hosting a series of events and initiatives aimed at raising awareness and providing support for victims and survivors of domestic violence.
DVIP & RVAP operates a 24/7 shelter for individuals and families fleeing intimate partner violence. Every Domestic Violence Awareness Month, they request help from the community in stocking the shelter at their Shop For Safety campaign.
DVIP & RVAP is partnering with several grocery stores in Johnson County on this event. Volunteers, board members, and staff will be onsite at each location to solicit donations for the organization’s most needed items. The goods collected at this event will provide about nine months’ worth of hygiene items, household cleaning supplies, and food for the individuals the agency serves within each year.
Participating locations include Burlington Hy-Vee, Mount Pleasant Hy-Vee, Keokuk Hy-Vee, Washington Hy-Vee, Fort Madison Fairway.
Shop for Shelter will take place on October 10th, 2024 from 4-6 PM.
If you miss Shop for Shelter but would still like to donate goods to the cause, contact 319-359-9353 to set up a drop-off appointment.
DVIP & RVAP is also hosting other Domestic Violence Awareness Month activities, including:
Library Book Displays: Starting October 1st, public libraries across DVIP & RVAP’s eight-county service region will feature curated book displays throughout the month, highlighting books and resources that focus on domestic violence, survivor stories, and related issues. Free bookmarks offering resources and information for those in need will also be available.
Participating libraries include Tipton Public Library, West Branch Public Library, Burlington Public Library, Yohe Memorial Library (West Burlington SCC), Mount Pleasant Public Library, Iowa City Public Library, North Liberty Library, Coralville Public Library, Keokuk Public Library, Fort Madison Public Library, Keosauqua Public Library, Washington Public Library, Kalona Public Library, Williamsburg Public Library, Solon Public Library, and Marengo Public Library.
Wear Purple Day: Join DVIP & RVAP on October 17th in wearing purple to support victim-survivors. Purple is the national color used to represent those who have experienced/are experiencing domestic violence. Share photos of your purple wear on social media, tag DVIP & RVAP, and use the hashtag #PurpleForAPurpose.
“Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a great time for the community to show support for survivors,” said Alta Medea, Director of Community Engagement for DVIP. “We invite everyone to participate in these events, educate themselves about the issues victim-survivors are facing, and show their support for individuals affected by domestic violence.”
For more information about these events, visit our website at dvipiowa.org.