Haven to raise funds for domestic violence victims

PORTSMOUTH - One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. Individuals can make a difference by donating to Haven during the Allstate Foundation Purple Purse Flash Fundraiser, which will take place from April 17-24. The activity is a friendly fundraising competition among nonprofit organizations around the country with $50,000 in prize money at stake.

The Purple Purse Flash takes place during Financial Literacy Awareness Month. Financial abuse can be one of the biggest barriers for victims of domestic violence to leave an abusive relationship as often a victim is not allowed to secure employment or have access to a credit card or cash, making it difficult for her to become financially independent.

Haven will use the funds raised to continue its mission of "ending violence and changing lives." During the past year, Haven provided critical support services and violence prevention education programming to nearly 15,000 people in Rockingham and Strafford counties.

"Unlike most nonprofits, Haven's operations don't close at 5 o'clock: our crisis hotline never goes to voicemail and our trained staff and volunteers are available whenever and wherever a crisis arises," said Haven Executive Director Kathy Beebe.

"We do this for our neighbors as well as yours, for coworkers and relatives, adults and children."

The Purple Purse Flash Fundraiser will be hosted on CrowdRise, the largest crowdfunding platform for good. The nonprofit that raises the most funds wins $25,000, second place wins $15,000 and third place wins $5,000. Those that raise at least $1,000 will be entered into a drawing for another $5,000.

Allstate Foundation Purple Purse is the longest running national campaign focused on ending domestic violence through a proven solution: financial empowerment services for survivors. The foundation has invested more than $60 million and helped more than 1.3 million survivors recover their financial independence and break the cycle of domestic violence.

To help Haven win the Flash Fundraiser, visit www.crowdrise.com/o/en/campaign/havennh-purplepurseflash.