Making the Holidays Bright

Survivors of intimate partner violence have to make hard choices. All the time. When money is limited (often severely so), it goes to the most pressing need, whether it’s a medical bill, rent, or even basic groceries. And it only becomes that much harder around the holidays when a simple family meal might feel like an impossible splurge.

This fall, we sought to ease that burden. Thanks to funding from members of the New York City Council and generous individuals, DVP was able to offer several opportunities to provide for the families we serve.

1. Back to School

The most wonderful time of the year! There’s nothing better than starting the year with a fresh bag, notebooks, and pencils. We gave out 76 backpacks full of supplies to clients’ kids so they were ready to learn.

2. Thanksgiving

We all know that food is healing, and perhaps none more so than a Thanksgiving dinner with your loved ones. We wanted to set our survivors up with all that they needed to make the most meaningful and culturally appropriate meal they could for their family — we prepped bags full of essentials (oil, rice, stuffing, potatoes, gravy, and much more) plus an additional gift card to buy the protein of their choosing. These were picked up by 72 clients, reaching 161 individuals including their children, plus whoever else they decided to share the meal with!

3. Winter Coats

New York City winters are long and brutal, making a good winter coat absolutely essential. Knowing that our clients will often prioritize their children, forgoing their own comfort and safety, we wanted to ensure everyone was well taken care of this year. We allocated funds to underwrite a current total of 79 coats for survivors and their children.