CLARE Haven Domestic Abuse Support Services is calling on members of the public to Go Purple on Friday (April 29) to raise awareness of domestic violence and to raise funds for its service.
In association with Safe Ireland and An Garda Síochána, a call is being made for people of all ages to show their solidarity for women and children being subjected to, experiencing and exiting domestic abuse, by embracing the colour purple for one day.
The initiative will support the vital work of Clare Haven, the only dedicated domestic abuse service based in this county.
Last year alone, the service received 1,005 helpline calls. In 2021, 569 women accessed non-refuge outreach support while 94 women and 188 children were accommodated in Clare Haven’s refuge.
During this time, the service also provided 200 court accompaniments.
The purple-themed fundraising and awareness event was started last year as a local event in County Meath by Stacey Looby.
A member of An Garda Síochána, Stacey sought to consolidate the community partnership between the force and local domestic violence service, and to raise funds within the community.
This year, with the support of the Department of Justice, Minister Helen McEntee and Safe Ireland – of which Clare Haven is a member – 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 children,” a campaign spokesperson said.
People at home, school, college and the workplace are encouraged to get involved in the campaign on Friday.
They can do so by wearing, cooking, growing, eating or creating something purple, sharing their image on social media platforms using the hashtag #GoPurple. Donations can be made to Clare Haven Services via its website Clarehaven.ie or through its Facebook page.
Supporters can also buy a ticket for Clare Haven’s Summer Treats Fundraiser. Courtesy of Gregan’s Castle Hotel, there is a chance to win either dinner, bed and breakfast for two, or a gourmet dinner for two in their luxurious hotel.
More details are available online here