In recognition of Domestic Violence Prevention and Awareness Month, YWCA Greenwich’s Harmony Project will be holding a Community Candlelight Vigil on Tuesday, October 24 at 259 East Putnam Avenue in Greenwich. The vigil will memorialize those who have lost their lives due to domestic violence, as well as honor the strength and resilience of survivors within our community.
In conjunction with their theme of “The Healing Power of Pets”, YWCA Greenwich will be presenting the Purple Ribbon Award to a member of a local community organization who has shown an outstanding commitment to the issue of domestic violence. This year’s recipient will be Greenwich Animal Control, who have helped temporarily shelter dogs and cats while their owners navigate the storm of intimate partner violence.
“When people seek help from YWCA Greenwich’s Harmony Project, they are in the midst of crisis and experiencing the very worst days of their lives. Victims of domestic and sexual violence are doing their best to protect themselves and their children from life-threatening harm, while often managing jobs, family, child and elder care all at once. Many who are considering leaving the relationship are worried about what will happen to their pets and lack of accommodations for pets is a significant well-known barrier to leaving,” explained Harmony Project’s Manager of Crisis Services, Lisa Tella.
Throughout the month of October, the YWCA Greenwich Gertrude White Gallery will feature creative pieces on canvas crafted by pets in the community with help from their humans.
While domestic violence continues to be the number one violent crime in our community, Greenwich Animal Control offers compassion and care, providing peace of mind while pet parents work on their safety plan. Harmony Project offers free domestic abuse and sexual violence services at YWCA Greenwich, including counseling, crisis intervention, emergency shelter, criminal court advocacy, and a 24/7 hotline.
About YWCA Greenwich: Founded in 1919, YWCA Greenwich is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. YWCA Greenwich provides programs for people of all ages and genders with initiatives that include preschool and after school programs, aquatics programs, youth athletics, health and fitness programs and seminars focusing on racial justice and women’s empowerment. Additionally, YWCA Greenwich is the only provider of domestic and sexual violence services in Greenwich, with staff who are licensed to provide crisis intervention, counseling, shelter, and victim advocacy. These services are free.
