Show your support for domestic violence survivors on ‘Purple Thursday’ in the Twin Tiers

TWIN TIERS, N.Y. ( WETM ) – The third Thursday of October is Purple Thursday, a day that shows support for survivors of domestic violence by helping raise awareness of a very real issue that many people experience.

On Purple Thursday, members of the community are encouraged to wear purple to show support and show survivors that they are not alone. This year, Purple Thursday falls on Oct. 17.

In addition to wearing purple on Thursday, there are other ways that you can show your support and spread awareness for domestic violence in the Twin Tiers.

How you can participate in Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the Southern Tier

In Chemung County, Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler is hosting an event on Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Wisner Park in Elmira to remember those lost to domestic violence, as well as honor those who have survived or are currently involved in a domestic violence situation. The event is free to attend and will be held outdoors. Everyone who attends the event is encouraged to wear purple and visit the Catholic Charities tables to receive information about services available in Chemung and Schuyler Counties. Domestic violence awareness t-shirts will also be available for $10 at the event.

Stacy's Soap Drive, an initiative that collects personal care items for domestic violence victims in the Southern Tier of New York, is still accepting donations. If you're interested in contributing to the initiative, you can donate and drop off new toiletry items at various locations in Chemung and Schuyler counties until Saturday, Oct. 19. A full list of drop-off locations can be found he r e .

HAVEN of Tioga County is hosting an 'Embrace Your Voice' campaign to commemorate its 40th year supporting survivors and families in Tioga County, Pennsylvania, which is in November of 2024. Survivors who have sought support from HAVEN in its 40 years of service are encouraged to share their stories anonymously in one to three paragraphs. The organization will share these anonymous submissions on its website and social media throughout the months of October and November. To submit your story or the story of a loved one, visit the campaign page on the HAVEN website.