Women’s Event Brings Hope To Local Domestic Violence Crisis

A few short weeks after the successful ‘Shades of Women’ event, local women’s advocate and CEO of Kickass Women, Jo Sainsbury has presented the Mackay Women’s Services with a $5,000 cheque and $6,000 worth of emergency hope bags.

The combination of both dedication and passion, Jo proudly delivered the proceeds and 12 hope bags to support women and children affected by domestic violence in the region across their services of Mackay Women’s Centre, Domestic Violence Resource Service and Sexual Assault Service – with an overwhelming response.

“Incredible. That’s the only way we can describe the impact this will have in giving women and children the relief, security, and opportunity to survive the first 24-48 hours. For some, it will be their only chance,” said Tersia Mouton, Mackay Women’s Service’s Service Delivery Manager.

Over 120 local women, sponsors, and community representatives came together on Saturday 9 July at a Gala Event held at Magpies Sporting Club to raise funds and highlight the severity of the issue that requires ongoing vital resources for the region of Mackay.

“Survivors of domestic violence often leave with nothing. The Hope Bags items, such as a phone, sim card, toiletries, and grocery voucher, honestly make the world of difference to them. To receive bags completely ready for emergency relief is truly a godsend,” she said.

Jo Sainsbury said that the next Shades of Women was already planned for 27 May 2023 in alignment with Domestic Violence Prevention Month, and she had an exciting announcement about the second event.

“It’s my absolute pleasure to welcome Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal as the Presenting Rights Sponsor for next year’s event. I cannot thank them enough for their support and backing of Shades of Women.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the sponsors of this year’s event who got behind the concept and helped bring it to life. It takes a collective effort to make an event happen, and it’s humbling to already be watching the growth and impact ramping up for 2023,” she said.

Jo said that she had started Kickass Women to empower and advocate for women and the Shades of Women event was an extension of the ethos and values to support women within our region – when they need it most.

Tickets for Shades of Women 2023 will be on sale later this year. Follow Kickass Women’s Facebook Page for updates www.facebook.com/KickassWomenAustralia

CEO of Kickass Women, Jo Sainsbury has presented the Mackay Women’s Services with a $5,000 cheque following the success of the Shades of Women event

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