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Community Corner

Jewish Women to Bring Essentials to Chicago Area Shelters

Hundreds of women and children leaving domestic violence shelters will do so in dignity in October, thanks to a program sponsored by the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) Chicago North Shore Section. Luggage for Freedom began in October 2004, in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and through the program, women and children staying at domestic violence shelters in the Chicago area receive gently used luggage packed with essentials, and backpacks filled with books and stuffed animals for children as they prepare to start new lives outside the shelters.

Luggage for Freedom delivers hundreds of pieces of luggage and backpacks each October to suburban shelters such as A Safe Place, WINGS, PADS, and Just Between Friends. This year, the program will expand to additional city shelters.

The annual Packing and Delivery Day for NCJW Chicago North Shore’s Luggage for Freedom project will take place on Sunday, October 6, 2013 from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm at the West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge in Highland Park, IL., 60035. Volunteers are invited to sort items between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.,pack suitcases between 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. and to deliver donations to domestic violence shelters in both Chicago and the suburbs. Ages 4 and up are welcome to help. In addition, committee members are sought. To donate or volunteer, call 847-853-8889 or email info@ncjwcns.org.

The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action.  Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.  Please visit us at www.ncjwcns.org or call 847.853.8889.

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