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The reality is that one in four women will be a victim of domestic violence in their lifetime, said Karen Mason, Executive Director for the Kelowna Women’s Shelter, and most incidents of violence go unreported, so it’s actually believed that those statistics are much higher.
The Kelowna Women’s Shelter is celebrating their 35th anniversary with a fundraising event, Party in Pink, designed to shed some light on the issue of domestic violence right here in Kelowna.
After 35 years, domestic violence is still a prevalent concern in our community, as last year alone, 214 women and children spent at least one night at the local women’s shelter.
In addition, there was a 25 per cent increase in children and women staying at the shelter in excess of the 30 days allotted, mostly because they could not find affordable and safe housing in Kelowna.
According to Mason, domestic abuse is an issue, but it’s an issue that must be collectively tackled from the ground up.
“It’s never the woman’s fault and we need to end the stigma attached to domestic violence,” added Mason. “We need to understand the issue and start talking about healthy relationships and respectful behaviour.”
Proceeds from the Party in Pink event will help to finance programs that assist women and children affected by domestic abuse in our community. Aside from providing safe housing, the Kelowna Women’s Shelter also provides counselling, transitional homes, and educational seminars that are geared toward ending the cycle of violence.
The pink tie themed event will include a welcome glass of wine, five gourmet food stations, entertainment, prizes, and a silent auction.
Tickets for the event are $50 per person, and if you're interested in attending, be sure to grab your ticket soon because they're almost sold out.
The event will be held on June 12th at the Sandhill Winery tasting room in downtown Kelowna, 1125 Richter Street.
You can buy your tickets online or by stopping by Mavazi Apparel at 12-565 Bernard Avenue.
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