Independent Member for Alfred Cove Dr Janet Woollard is organising a two-week toiletries donation drive to help women who are in crisis or escaping violence.

The toiletries drive is being held in conjunction with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, or White Ribbon Day, on 25 November 2009.

“1 in 3 women in Australia may experience physical violence at some point in their lives with most physical assaults occurring in the home,” said Dr Woollard.

“Annually, about 300 women in crisis or escaping violence are referred to one of the women refuge centres in Perth. This however is only a fraction of women in Western Australia facing domestic and other forms of violence.

“White Ribbon Day was conceived to raise awareness about violence against women. Men are encouraged to speak out and step in when male friends and relatives insult or attack women.”

Dr Woollard said Zonta House Refuge is one of several organisations which extend a helping hand to women fleeing from the violence. They provide emergency accommodation, counselling and other support programs.

“Women arriving at Zonta House often have little time to pack a bag or take their personal belongings, and a bag of toiletries are given to them,” said Dr Woollard.

“I encourage members of the community to participate by donating toiletries to help provide some comfort to these women.

Items could include shampoo, toothbrushes, moisturiser, nail clippers and socks (see list below).

Dr Woollard said the donation drive will end on 9 December. Donations can be dropped off at her Electorate Office from 9 am to 4 pm between Mondays and Thursdays. The donated toiletries will be forwarded to Zonta House Refuge.

About White Ribbon Day

White Ribbon Day was first observed in 1991. It was created by a group of Canadian men on the second anniversary of one man’s massacre of 14 women in Montreal. This day encourages all men to swear that they will not commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women. More about White Ribbon Day in Australia can be found at http://www.whiteribbonday.org.au/.

About Zonta House Refuge

Zonta House Refuge (Zonta) is a not-for-profit organisation which provides emergency accommodation and a safe, supportive, respectful environment for women in crisis. Zonta’s mission is to work towards breaking the cycle of domestic violence and homelessness for women. They began operating in 1984 and currently have 3 houses in Western Australia which can accommodate up to 50 women at a time. Zonta relies on funding from the Department of Child Protection and donations from agencies, businesses and individuals. For more information, please contact Annette Chivers (annette@zontahouse.org.au)

Suggested list of items and toiletries for White Ribbon Day donation

- Shampoo & conditioner

- Hairbrush & comb

- Hair accessories (grips, elastics)

- Toothbrush & toothpaste

- Deodorant

- Soap & shower gel

- Body lotion

- Moisturiser

- Lip Balm

- Personal hygiene (tampons, pads, liners)

- Eyebrow tweezers

- Nail file & clippers

- Socks

- Towels

- Pyjamas

- Bras & underwear (especially larger sizes)