While Equality Now is the main focus of the Global Can’t Stop the Serenity event, we feel it is important to give back directly to a local charity.  Once again, we have chosen The House of the Good Shepherd, a favorite of ours. On the day of the screening—Augus 28, 2010—we will be collecting much-needed items that are vital in helping the families who are breaking away from abusive homes.  In addition, we will be donating 25% of the funds collected to The House (as allowed by Global CSTS)

The House of the Good Shepherd

is a shelter and recovery program for battered women and their children that works to end the cycle of domestic violence in the Chicagoland area.

The House has an outstanding record; 91% of the women in the program leave their abusers and go on to make productive lives for themselves and their children, and 83% of all donated funds goes directly to the program.

The women and children in the 3.5-month program receive intensive group and individual counseling, education, and help to heal, regain their dignity and become self-sufficient.

Each of the 14 families—who have 1 to 6 children each—living at the House has a private apartment where they practice independent living skills and learn to restructure their relationships to prepare themselves for lives as healthy families. The House also provides a learning center where the women work on their education and job goals, a child care center and an aftercare program that promotes long-term recovery.

When the women and children come to the House, they often arrive with just the clothes on their backs. The lists below include basic supplies that are always needed for the care of families, ensuring their stay at the House and helping them become self-sufficient when they leave the House and set up housekeeping in their new homes. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

For more information, please contact Amy Lund at amyelund @ yahoo . com

Below is a list of items that are most needed at this time. If you have items you are interested in donating but are not listed below, please contact Amy.