​What's the problem?

Global estimates published by WHO indicate that about 1 in 3 (35%) of women worldwide have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime. Globally as many as 38% of all murders of women are committed by intimate partners. In addition to intimate partner violence, globally 7% of women report having been sexually assaulted by someone other than a partner, although data for non-partner sexual violence are more limited. Intimate partner and sexual violence are mostly perpetrated by men against women.

Why are we doing this?

Lisa

Ascia

as someone who was raised in a household with domestic violence, i fully understand the struggles first hand.

a life full of turbulence was all i had come to know at a very young age, once we found the opportunity to break free, we did so.

among a diaspora community which shamed women into remaining in a toxic home, it was difficult to find support or any kind of assistance.

with little over $100 to my mother’s name, + a a car, we begun a new life. a new beginning.

a little bit of support or kindness towards someone struggling in their home goes a long way.

Noha

My name is Noha Hamid. I am 25 year old Muslim American born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. I love to use my platform for good. 

After learning more about domestic violence and all the women have to go through I want to support them in any way I can. 

I am surrounded by many people that have suffered first hand domestic violence. These women deserve a second chance and you can help.

Where will the money specifically go?

There are two main Domestic Violence shelters that will be funded through the contributions of this campaign. The first is the Ihata Women's Shelter in Cape Town, South Africa and the second will be Penny Appeal USA's Baitul Hemayah Shelter in Charlotte, North Carolina. Your funds will be helping women both domestically and internationally cope with violence during these tough times.

Baitul Hemaya Shelter in North Carolina

The PAUSA Shelter is a 24/7 emergency shelter for survivors who are in imminent danger and have escaped from a domestic violence situation.  All residents will be given 30-60 day stay. However, some may stay longer depending on their individual situation. The shelter has 4 huge bedrooms and room for 10 people, including their children.  There are several common areas in the shelter including a living room, kitchen, dining area. We will provide 3 meals per day, toiletries and other daily essentials. Each resident is assigned to an Advocate when they enter the shelter, the advocates will provide help with attaining goals, referrals to other agencies and counseling.  Residents will also attend support groups and special activities throughout their stay. 

​Ihata Women's Shelter in South Africa

The Ihata Shelter based in Heideveld on the Cape Flats has been providing women with an opportunity to break away from their violent environment since 2010 by providing them and their children with shelter, protection, 3 healthy meals a day, clothing and toiletries. The shelter provides three levels of support for the women that attend. Short term assistance, long term stay and after care. The programm, which is offered to women who stay at the shelter for a prolonged period of time (on average 6 months) is aimed at holistic development and takes the form of one on one sessions and group therapy.

What will $25,000 help towards specifically?

The $25,000 will be split equally among the two shelters. This means that each of the shelters will receive $12,500. For $12,500, your contribution will help with hygiene kits, food kits, room, food, board, utilities, and rent. Essentially covering all of the operational costs of both shelters for roughly two months each. In addition, your donation could cover costs such as counseling and rehabilitation for women that are in need at the shelter.

Will this effort be carried out by a trusted non profit?

Yes! This campaign is partnered directly with Penny Appeal USA. Since 2009, the Penny Appeal family has been helping aid beneficiaries through orphan care, water relief, disaster responses, and food distributions in over 30 countries. To see their 2019 Annual Report, please click here.