Albany Women’s Centre gets record number of Kare Kits and almost $4000 in Albany Soroptomist donation drive

A drive to collect essential supplies for women fleeing domestic violence has had its best year yet since it started eight years ago. This year Albany Soroptomists put together a record 175 Kare Kit drawstring bags containing essential toiletries for women and children housed in the Albany Women’s Centre, gathered from 63 donation boxes distributed across the Great Southern. As well as collecting boxes of clothing and school supplies, the drive raised a record $3919 to be used by the women for emergencies or to help families integrate back into the community. Project co-ordinator Janet McArtney said she was pleasantly surprised to see how well this year’s drive had gone. “I was bracing myself for lower numbers because we didn’t think we’d do that well given how tough times are for a lot of people,” she said. “We’re really appreciative that people still managed to dig deep given the growing concern for family violence. “This year was our best in terms of kits made up and money raised so we’re very pleased. “We sincerely thank the entire community from Albany to Denmark to Mt Barker — these donations have been very gratefully received by the women.” Ms McArtney specifically thanked Community Bank Albany, which donated $3000. Excess donations were sent to other needy groups including Shalom House, Days for Girls, Young House, Anglicare Community Cupboard, and aged care homes. Donations to the 2024 drive beat last year’s numbers, which included $20,000 worth of goods donated from 45 collection points. Those still wanting to donate to the Albany Women’s Centre can deliver items directly to the AnglicareWA office at 44 Collie Street in Albany all year round. If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, phone 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or the Crisis Care Helpline on 1800 199 008.