Attendees lit candles in early October to cast a light on domestic violence in Douglas County.
Photo by Kurt Hildebrand.
Tickets for the Family Support Council’s Unmask Domestic Violence formal masquerade 5:30 p.m. Nov. 18 at Minden Mercantile are on sale.
“We can no longer hide in the shadows, and neither will our survivors,” said Council Executive Director Veronica LaChance. “Our unmasking event will not only bring light to the horrible crime that is domestic violence but raise awareness to the needs of our shelter facility. Rise up to help us provide a safe, yet comforting space. Be an Advocate and a light to our survivors.”
Support Council President Tara Addeo said the masks are a reminder that domestic violence thrives in silence.
“We provide a safe dwelling for women, children and the elderly at our undisclosed valley shelter for up to three months,” Addeo said. “This is always at no charge and will continue that way. We are 100-percent reliant on donations and grants but since COVID, we have lost many of these funds.”
LaChance said the Family Support Council does provide shelter services.
“We do not receive funds to cover the energy and gas bills, toiletry needs, yard and shelter maintenance, and everything else it takes to operate a 13-bed shelter,” LaChance said. “The harsh reality is that without these unrestricted funds, our shelter will close, and survivors will have to find support outside of the county.”
All proceeds from the event will support the shelter.
“This masquerade event is our pledge to bring visibility to a cause that deserves our attention, compassion and unwavering support,” Addeo said. “Our board is all in.”
Contact Addeo, taraaddeo@gmail.com or 775-230-5872 or LaChance at riseagainstdv@family-support.org for additional information on tickets or donations.
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