Declutter before Christmas: Brisbane mum seeking second-hand handbags for domestic violence survivors
Share the Dignity founder Rochelle Courtenay has appealed for public donations to her #Itsinthebag Christmas appeal. (Share the Dignity)
A Brisbane mother and the founder of charity Share the Dignity is asking the public to consider donating unwanted handbags to those in need as part of her #Itsinthebag Christmas appeal.
Rochelle Courtenay, 44, launched the appeal for the first time last year in the hopes of putting old bags to good use.
As part of the scheme, members of the public are encouraged to fill unused handbags with essential supplies such as sanitary items, shampoo, sunscreens, hats and scarves then deposit them at collection points.
Alternatively they may make financial donations, which Share the Dignity will use to fill 500 brand new bags already donated to the cause.
The bags will be gifted to female victims of domestic violence, as well as those living in shelters, drought-stricken areas and mental health care facilities at Christmas.
Ms Courtenay said she’s been surprised by the amount of support #Itsinthebag has received, with many people making donations from as far afield as Canada, Japan, Scotland and Germany.
The organisation has received 32,500 bags out of a total goal of 52,000. Last year 27,000 bags were donated.
“It’s been a movement of kindness. This has been a chance for people to do something practical to help others,” she told 9news.com.au.
“I think people love giving just as much as the people will love receiving them.”
The collection is expected to end tomorrow afternoon. Ms Courtenay nevertheless encourages people without bags on hand to consider donating next year.
She said the movement was inspired by the fact that women faced with domestic violence situations often leave with nothing more than their kids and their keys.
“They don’t have the basic essentials like deodorant, or toothbrushes, or anything like that. So they’re leaving with nothing,” she said.
READ MORE: Meet the Brisbane mum who wants all Aussie women to have access to sanitary items
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