On one Saturday in October, domestic abuse survivors from our SafetyNet program put their worries aside and participated in a celebration of their resilience, their beauty and their connection. The program included a fashion show, Zumba lesson, 360 Photo Booth, delicious lunch, inspirational words and gifts. It was a special time for the ladies to focus on themselves. Bellaney, an attendee, shared her thoughts:
I want to thank HomeSafe and all those who collaborate with the agency so that survivors of domestic violence can see another outlook of our lives. The only thing we have to do is recognize that we have a problem which we need help to overcome. When they offered me help, I hesitated a lot to accept, since my self-esteem was very damaged. I felt ashamed and could not accept that I had suffered from violence; but today I consider that it was my biggest and best decision in life, since today I feel empowered.
Thank you to the individuals and companies whose support made the program possible:
- Chef Jose Ignacio Paredes and Coromoto 2020
- Marjorie Onoro Gema
- David Herrera
- JR Design by Johanna Restrepo
- Carlos Mario & Natalia Rincon from El Bodegon Supermarket #2
- Jayden Flowers & Balloons – Lanny Ortiz
- The ladies who enjoyed the day of beauty, empowerment and gratitude.
- Marlene Rivera, SafetyNet Victim Advocate, plans this annual event which brings together current and former clients of the program to celebrate their strength and resilience as survivors.
- Marlene with Chef Jose Ignacio Paredes who prepared paella for lunch and provided bags of groceries for each of the attendees, thanks to the organization Coromoto 2020.
- Throughout the day, attendees participated in activities that allowed them to support each other, celebrate their successes, and even get motivated with some Zumba moves!
- Current and former clients – chosen to help uplift their self-esteem – modeled the beautiful outfits by designer Johanna Restrepo – JR Design
- Throughout the day, attendees participated in activities that allowed them to support each other, celebrate their successes, and even get motivated with some Zumba moves!