For the past two years, it has been my privilege to serve as president of the Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable (SWLDVR) and see firsthand the courage, tenacity, commitment, and generosity of both those whom we support and the many who support the Roundtable.
Our mission is to promote safe and healthy relationships, raise public awareness about abusive and controlling behaviors, and end relationship abuse in all its forms. We could not move towards achieving our goals — to educate communities, support agencies that provide services to survivors of domestic abuse, network with other concerned groups, and mobilize community leaders — without the support of our communities.
The numbers of reported domestic abuse incidents have risen sharply during the pandemic, and strains on survivors and service providers have increased correspondingly.
In addition to everything else they face, survivors are experiencing job losses, health concerns, financial instability, and increased domestic pressures. As front-line workers, providers have continued their work while worrying about their own health, sick family members, and grieving the loss of loved ones.
And yet, amid all the darkness, the best of human nature has been displayed.
Financial donations have increased. The Holiday Gift Drive, Shower for Shelters, and the Valentine’s Gift Bag Project have been supported in ways that clearly demonstrate “the kindness of strangers,” the generosity of the community, and the enormous commitment of our volunteers.
During October (Domestic Violence Awareness Month), purple lights (the color of courage) illuminated public and private buildings in Sudbury, Wayland, Weston, Framingham, and Weston. Banners encouraging us to Shine a Light on domestic abuse were displayed in Sudbury, Wayland, and Lincoln. Residents of Lincoln placed purple bulbs in window lamps.
As we move into 2022 and on behalf of the Roundtable, I should like to thank firstly and most importantly, the community members of Sudbury, Wayland, and Lincoln who have shared their lived experiences, resources, and talents.
Next, we are deeply appreciative of the support received from town leaders, civic organizations, local businesses, and members of the faith communities.
Finally, thanks to the following for their continued support and generosity: the First Parish in Wayland Lydia Maria Child Fund, the Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund, Brad Keyes of Keyes North Atlantic, Inc., the Saia Family of Sudbury Wine and Spirits, Ace Hardware Wayland, Lincoln Chief of Police Kevin Kennedy, and Lincoln Town Administrator Tim Higgins.
For information on ways to support the SWLDVR, or if you or someone you know needs help, please go to our website at www.domesticviolenceroundtable.org.
Sincerely,
Sue Rushfirth
President, Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable
P.O. Box 543
Sudbury, MA 01776
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