Domestic Violence Awareness event held on ‘Purple Thursday’ in Elmira

ELMIRA, N.Y. ( WETM ) – Catholic Charities of Chemung & Schuyler is holding its annual event to spread awareness for domestic violence, remember those who have been lost and celebrate survivors on Thursday, Oct. 17, for ‘Purple Thursday.’

From 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Wisner Park, Catholic Charities will be available to provide resources to members of the community so that they know how to receive the services that they, a friend or family member may need if they are suffering from domestic violence. The event is free for the community to attend and everyone is encouraged to wear purple.

During the event, Catholic Charities will be selling t-shirts for $10 to benefit its First Step Victim Services Program , which provides advocacy and referral services to all victims of crime in Chemung and Schuyler counties. The program focuses mainly on victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse but also assists innocent victims of other crimes, such as robbery, assault and more.

As part of the celebration, a survivor will also be speaking at the event to share their story and provide encouragement for others who may be suffering.

An interview with Catholic Charities’ Program Supervisor Lauren Lovett concerning the event can be found below:

If you were unable to make it to the event but are searching for resources, there are free and confidential services available for 24/7 help. You can receive help at any time by contacting one of the following resources:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline
  • thehotline.org
  • 1-800-799-SAFE (800-799-7233)
• First Step Victim Services Hotline
  • 607-742-9629 (call or text)

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