In the wake of recent tragic deaths apparently resulting from domestic violence, Zonta Club of Birmingham announces its annual Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women campaign. A billboard on I-65 from November 14 , 2020 through January 2021 will publicize that women can get help by calling 1-800-799-SAFE.
This year the need for funding is greater than ever. Domestic violence shelters in the Birmingham area are challenged trying to provide a safe place to those abused while also protecting against the Coronavirus. Domestic violence is prevalent — affecting one in three women.
Lauren Thompson, director of domestic violence services at the YWCA Central Alabama, said facilities are pushed to the limit. Housing is full because clients who desperately need to get out of a situation have to be isolated from Coronavirus and cannot share a room with someone who might be contagious. Hotels are filling the void.
Zonta Club of Birmingham has been a long-time supporter of the YWCA of Central Alabama Domestic Violence Service. The club also participates in Santa’s Workshop, through which the YWCA gives domestic violence victims in shelters the opportunity to provide holiday gifts for their children.
Contributions toward the Zonta Club’s efforts to fight domestic violence and help victims can be made at WWW.ZONTABIRMINGHAM.ORG/DONATE
Since 1923, Zonta International has provided more than $40.9 million to empower women and expand their access to education, health care, economic opportunities and safe living conditions. Zonta’s nearly 1,200 clubs support local and regional initiatives in 63 countries worldwide.