“For many domestic violence survivors who have given up everything to leave an abusive situation, the holidays can be a particularly difficult time,” explained The Retreat Executive Director Loretta K. Davis. “When you are with family and friends this holiday season, we hope you will have shared your good fortune with your neighbors whose lives have been disrupted by domestic violence.”
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The Retreat staff members collect Adopt-A-Family gifts. (Courtesy Photos) |
One in three women and one in four men have been victims of [some form of] physical violence by an intimate partner within their lifetime, according to a National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey. In an effort to brighten the holiday season for those effected by domestic violence, The Retreat, the East End’s only domestic violence service agency, has launched its annual Holiday Giving Programs, the Thanksgiving Gift Card Drive and Adopt-A-Family.
Your first chance to help spread some holiday cheer is the Thanksgiving Gift Card Drive. The Retreat is asking the Long Island community to donate gift cards from local food stores, so clients can create their own holiday meal and provide a joyous seasonal experience for their loved ones. If you wish to contribute to the Thanksgiving Drive, checks and gift cards can be sent to The Retreat, 13 Goodfriend Drive, East Hampton, New York 11937 and must arrive by Monday, November 16th.
As the season of giving begins, you can also sign up for the Adopt-A-Family program. Help bring a smile to local East End families by sponsoring a family, which entails donating specified gifts and gift cards. All items must be received by Friday, December 11th.
For more information, call The Retreat’s Holiday Help Line at 631-329-4398 or visit www.theretreatinc.org.
