Member for Maitland and Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jenny Aitchison, is overwhelmed by the local community support shown to Share the Dignity’s Christmas campaign ‘It’s in the Bag’.

‘It’s in the Bag’ is an initiative that encourages people to fill an old handbag they have at home with sanitary, beauty and hygiene products to be handed out as a special gift to local women in need this Christmas.

Reports suggest increased alcohol abuse and financial stress over the Christmas period contribute to a surge in domestic violence rates.

The campaign runs until Saturday 3 December so it’s not too late to drop off your donation.

Ms Aitchison has collected over 70 donations from local residents throughout the 2 week campaign at her office.

For more information on the campaign and to access a list of recommended products to include in each handbag please visit www.sharethedignity.com.au

Quotes attributable to Member for Maitland and Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

“I’m extremely grateful to the local community for the support they’ve given to this year’s ‘It’s in the Bag’ campaign; it shows we live in an incredibly generous community,”

“It’s nice to be able to reach out to people in our own backyard who need help and support.”

The bags are filled with everyday items most of us take for granted – from shampoo and conditioner to tissues, moisturiser and sanitary items – but many of these items are sacrificed when the going gets tough.

“The bags will be distributed to women at Carrie’s Place fleeing domestic violence and other local community organisations in Maitland.

“Thank you to the entire nation-wide Share the Dignity volunteers who raise funds and bring awareness of the daily challenges that homeless women face each day in our community.