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An international charity initiative designed to support survivors of domestic violence, and also keep the memory of an adventurous young woman alive, has taken off in Mangawhai with bags already donated by generous locals.
Organised by Mangawhai Lions, the heartfelt movement Love Grace Handbag Appeal started on Valentines Day, February 14, and runs through to International Women’s Day, March 8. Once collected, Lion’s members will pass on the donations to Women’s Refuge for distribution.
Set up by the family of British backpacker Grace Millane after the 22-year-old was murdered in Auckland in December 2018, the appeal combines the young woman’s love for handbags with a legacy to end violence against women.
The initiative involves people filling a handbag – either new or quality second-hand – with essential products a woman may need after she has fled from an unsafe home life. This can include items such as toothpaste, toothbrush, hairbrush, soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant and sanitary products. Extra items including wipes/tissues, make-up, moisturiser, hair brush, lip balm, playing cards, socks and jewellery are also welcome.
Last year’s appeal saw an incredible 5296 handbags donated nationwide to Women’s Refuge, illustrating a desire to help empower vulnerable women.
People wanting to gift a bag of goodies can drop their donation off at Mangawhai Community Op Shop aka the Factory, Wood Street, before March 8.
