A local charitable project that aims to show people in crisis some love and kindness is launching an appeal to help survivors of violence and other serious crimes during an emergency.
The Love in a Bag Cambridgeshire campaign is being launched tomorrow (25th November) in support of White Ribbon Day, which calls to end violence against women and girls, and the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence that follow.
The concept is simple: fill a pre-loved handbag, overnight bag, rucksack, shopper or even a carrier bag with toiletries, other little essentials or even a few luxuries, pop in a note and share some love with someone in crisis when they really need it.
The bags will be donated to people escaping violence and abuse, trafficking and exploitation and survivors of serious sexual offences. Detectives at Cambridgeshire Constabulary will give people the bags while they are being moved into emergency accommodation.
The project was set up earlier this year by Ely mum Sophie Bell, following the success of Love in a Bag projects in Bedfordshire and Oxfordshire. Thanks to the support of Ely residents, the project has already donated around 50 bags to local refuges and the police.
DI Dave Savill, who leads on the domestic abuse priority at Cambridgeshire Constabulary, said: “These bags will be a lifeline to people needing to leave their homes in an emergency, or if they need to go to hospital.
“We are really grateful to the public for their support so far and thank everyone for showing some love and kindness to people who feel vulnerable and afraid during one of the most difficult times in their lives.”
If you would like to contribute, please fill a pre-loved handbag, rucksack or overnight bag with the following items:
Shampoo and conditioner
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Soap or shower gel
Deodorant
Sanitary products
Optional extras:
Perfume
Cosmetics
Dry shampoo
Baby wipes or face wipes
Tissues
Hair brush and comb
Hair accessories
Moisturiser and body lotion
Hand cream
Stationery
Book
Socks
Handwritten note or card
The project cannot accept scissors, tweezers, razors or other sharps, food or perishables.
All items included in bags must be brand new and in sealed packaging for health and hygiene reasons.
Drop-offs can be made at The Isle of Ely School, School Road, Ely, during school hours until 3pm on Friday 17th December.
Any donations received after this time will still be given to someone in crisis.
Press release from Love in a Bag Cambridgeshire
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