AUSTIN, Texas — A simple donation can make a meaningful difference for someone facing one of the most difficult moments of their life.
Travis County law enforcement agencies and the Texas Advocacy Project have teamed up once again for the annual “Handbags and Backpacks for Hope” campaign, a community-wide effort that provides victims of domestic violence and sexual assault with access to critical resources and support.
The campaign collects new handbags, backpacks and diaper bags, which are then distributed to survivors. Each bag includes information about available legal and social services, safety planning resources and contact information for the Texas Advocacy Project.
Organizers say the goal is not only to provide a practical item, but also to connect survivors with help when they need it most.
“When we are able to collect a handbag, backpack, or diaper bag from the community, we’re also able to share the importance of access to the legal justice system for someone to get safety,” said Heather Bullino.
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The Texas Advocacy Project provides free legal services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and child abuse throughout Texas. Organizers say placing resource information directly into donated bags helps ensure survivors know where to turn for assistance.
Community members who would like to participate can donate new handbags, backpacks or diaper bags at designated drop-off locations across the region.
The campaign runs through the end of June.
For a list of drop-off locations and additional information about the Handbags and Backpacks for Hope campaign, visit TexasAdvocacyProject.org.
Organizers say every donation helps deliver more than a bag. It delivers information, support and a reminder to survivors that they are not alone.