In an effort to support women and families affected by family violence, retail chain Myer has launched national community giving program, the Give Registry.
 
Customers can choose an essential item from any Myer store to donate to women and their families and the retailer will match each product donation.
 
All items will go to women and children supported by the Salvation Army’s crisis accommodation and women’s refuges.
 
The Myer initiative is about standing up to domestic violence and making a difference, says CEO and managing director, Richard Umbers.
 
“Myer is standing up to family violence and we know that our customers and team members feel very passionately about this worthy cause,” he explains.
 
“The Give Registry means that we can work together with our customers to help make a difference in these women’s lives. We’re really proud to launch the Give Registry which provides practical support through the provision of much needed essential items.”
 
The Salvation Army’s Secretary for Women’s Ministries Colonel Karyn Rigley says this initiative will go a long way in assisting women as they rebuild their lives.
 
“One in three women are affected by family violence in Australia,” she says. “Family violence is also the leading cause of homelessness for women and children and often when a woman leaves a violent situation she leaves with nothing but the clothes on her back. Through the Give Registry we’ll be able to provide further practical care to women in crisis.”
 
The Give Registry works in a similar manner to a traditional gift registry, with pre-selected items that customers can choose from. All items have been selected by women who have experienced abuse and understand first-hand the most important items needed when rebuilding their lives.