Athlone based Esker House Domestic Abuse Support Services in association with Safe Ireland and An Garda Síochána are calling on members of the local public to ‘Go Purple’ tomorrow, Friday, April 29, to create awareness of domestic violence and raise funds for their service.
Women and men of all ages are called on to show their solidarity for women experiencing and exiting domestic abuse by embracing the colour purple for one day.
Speaking this week, Deirdre Berry, Manager at Esker House, stated that the event was started two years previously by Garda Stacey Looby.
Currently based at Athlone Garda Station, Garda Looby aimed to heighten awareness of domestic violence and consolidate a partnership between members of An Garda Síochána and relevant services within local communities, raising funds in the process.
This year, with the support of Justice Minister Helen McEntee and the support of Safe Ireland, the campaign is being rolled out across the country.
“The colour purple represents love, strength, dignity and independence all of which embrace the characteristics of a caring community which resists violence against women and girls,” Ms Berry asserted.
Individuals at home, school, college and the workplace are encouraged to get involved in the campaign by wearing, cooking, growing, eating or creating something purple, sharing their image on social media platforms using the hashtag #GoPurple, and donating funds to Esker House through their idonate page Esker House Women’s Refuge and Domestic Abuse Support Service
“Esker House Women’s Refuge and Domestic Abuse Support Services is the only dedicated refuge service for women and children experiencing domestic abuse in the Midland’s region.
“Esker House also has a 24hr helpline (0904674122 ), specialised children’s support service, information and advocacy support and specialised court support and accompaniment service. We also provide awareness and training workshops to our community,” Ms Berry concluded.
