More items needed to help survivors of domestic violence

The Genesis House Lorain County Safe Harbor, the local organization dedicated to helping survivors of domestic violence in Lorain County, needs the help of donations to continue to provide its service.

“These people need as much help as we can give,” said Elizabeth Patterson, marketing specialist with Safe Harbor. “The survivors of domestic violence deal with a lot and live very difficult lives.”

Patterson said Safe Harbor is a family-focused organization and tries to make things as comprehensive as possible.

“You need to take into account the lives domestic violence victims have to live after these terrible events,” she said. “There is the physical and mental toll that domestic violence has on a person.

“We strive to be a part of a group effort with other entities in the county to make victims’ lives better. This is through programming and raising awareness.”

Patterson said the organizational partnerships have been great for donations, but individuals can make a difference as well.

“We will take anything you feel could improve the

lives of victims,” she said. “We will take different foods, toys, furniture and whatever else people can think of that might make life easier for victims.

“Those who wish to donate, can visit the Lorain County Safe Harbor building (3575 Elyria Ave.) and donate whatever they wish to give. We then take the donations and give the items to those who need them.”

Leigh Ann Arroyo, an Elyria resident, believes domestic violence is something that should be taken more seriously.

“These people are survivors in every since of the word,” Arroyo said. “Their lives are never the same after what happens to them in these situations.

“We as a community need to be more supportive of them and take time to provide any help that we

can, whatever form that may take.”

Arroyo organized a special donation for the survivors of domestic violence.

“We have soaps, coloring books, and even a crib donated by Grace Baptist Church in North Ridgeville,” she said.

“I’m grateful for what people were willing to give, and hopefully, support will continue to come in for these people.”

ZACH SRNIS — THE MORNING JOURNAL Elyria resident Leigh Ann Arroyo stands next to a donation of a crib, diapers, toiletries and toys that she organized for domestic violence survivors.