White Ribbon Day 23rd November 2018

The White Ribbon campaign is active in over 60 nations across the world and is a global movement working to end male violence against women and girls. The movement seeks to promote healthy relationships, gender equity and a compassionate vision of masculinity.

Please support this day by thinking of the 58 women who have been killed by men in acts of violence in Australia since 1st January 2018 and also wearing a White Ribbon on November 23rd.

Last week Hamilton Library, in conjunction with Cert IV Youth work students hosted a morning tea in support of White Ribbon day. More than 60 staff and students enjoyed lovely treats while listening to Brooke from VOCAL speak of the effects of domestic violence on the women in our community.

 

Debbie Shares the Dignity

Share the Dignity supports women in crisis, in particular homeless women and victims of domestic violence. This charity collects thousands of personal hygiene products each year for women and girls in these circumstances. Debbie Harbrow from Hamilton Campus has been instrumental in helping the charity out by collaborating with TAFE staff and students to donate to this worthwhile cause.

In 2017 Hamilton TAFE Library asked for donations from campus staff and students. There was an amazing response from the TAFE community with donations given locally at Hamilton, but also donations sent to us from other TAFE locations around the state – including our wonderful TAFE Library Services team at Strathfield.

Not being one to rest on her laurels, Debbie then took on the task of co-ordinating a group work assignment with Community Services IV students in conjunction with their teacher. The “It’s in the Bag” fundraiser aims to make life a little better for women and girls experiencing homelessness or poverty at Christmas. Last year 85,000 women needed help. Debbie was able to extend the drive to other TAFE Campuses in the Hunter & Central Coast regions and this resulted in a contribution of over 100 handbags filled with sanitary items, shampoos & conditioners, deodorants, soaps and various other items handed over to the charity.

Recently, Debbie organised a fundraising dinner at the Clydesdale restaurant at Hamilton with proceeds going to the charity. Over $1,100 was raised as well as a large amount of toiletry items were donated. The volunteers talked about another of the charity’s initiatives, the Dignity Vending Machines, several of which have already been installed in schools and public toilets. The Share the Dignity Volunteers who attended the dinner were thrilled with the TAFE’s fundraising efforts coordinated by Debbie and are looking forward to a continuing partnership.

Thanks for Contributing to the 2018 Homeless Project

Many thanks to the staff & students at Hamilton Campus who supported our Easter Competition and who made donations, knitted, sewed and purchased items for our 2018 Homeless Project.

Compass Housing have collected 20 care packages to distribute!