YWCA of Glendale and the Purple Purse Challenge!

On an average day, nearly 11,000 requests for emergency shelter, childcare and other services go unanswered due to a lack of funding at domestic violence nonprofits around the country. Even as demand for services increases, these programs continue to operate with limited resources.

Allstate Foundation Purple Purse is trying to change those numbers, and Glendale, CA’s YWCA of Glendale has been selected as one of more than 160 participating nonprofits across the country to be a part of the Purple Purse Challenge, which raises funds for nonprofits serving domestic violence victims. The YWCA of Glendale was chosen for its commitment to providing financial empowerment services to domestic violence survivors.

“This is our first time participating in the Purple Purse Challenge,” said Michelle Roberts, executive director at the YWCA of Glendale. “Allstate is giving us a great opportunity to bring awareness about domestic violence and financial abuse while giving us the chance to raise much needed funding for our emergency shelter and domestic violence services.” “Every dollar we raise stays in Glendale and we have the chance to win $100,000 if we raise more money than any other nonprofit participating in the challenge.” The YWCA will be giving the purple purse designed by actress Kerry Washington and designer Dee Ocleppo to the donor who makes the largest online donation to the YWCA of Glendale. Supporters can donate online from Oct. 1 through Oct. 27, 2015 at www.crowdrise.com/ywcaofglendalecalifornia.

Through the Allstate Foundation Purple Purse Challenge at PurplePurse.com, each participating organization can raise program funds. And to encourage public donations, the Allstate Foundation is investing $500,000 in Challenge sweepstakes and contests. In addition to donating through the Challenge, Purple Purse charms can be purchased for $10 at PurplePurse.com, with proceeds benefiting Purple Purse Challenge nonprofits.

One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. In 98 percent of cases, victims will suffer from financial abuse, which means abusers will deny them access to money and financial resources. Without resources of their own, victims are often unable to care for themselves and their families, find employment and housing or save for the future.

Founded in 1926, the YWCA of Glendale’s mission is to empower women and girls in our community through education and opportunities to achieve independence, health, self-sufficiency and a life free from violence. In keeping with the national mission of the YWCA of USA, we also have a dual mission of “eliminating racism and empowering women.” Learn more about the YWCA of Glendale at www.glendaleywca.org. Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/glendaleywca and follow us on twitter at twitter.com/glendaleywca. 24-hr Domestic Violence Hotline (888) 999-7511.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.