MWRD President Kari K. Steele Brings #LovePurse initiative to MWRD to support women affected by domestic violence

November 5, 2024

Staff, Commissioners and community organizations countywide engaged in donation effort

In a heartfelt display of compassion and community spirit, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) staff and Commissioners donated purses filled with essential items to the LovePurse initiative for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

MWRD President Kari K. Steele (center) delivered dozens of purses filled with toiletries and other essential items donated by MWRD Commissioners and staff during the Cook County Clerk's #LovePurse collection to help victims of domestic violence.

The #LovePurse campaign is focused on supporting women impacted by domestic violence, homelessness and/or addiction by donating purses filled with hygiene products, necessities, and notes of encouragement to women residing in domestic violence shelters.

"MWRD staff and Commissioners exhibited remarkable enthusiasm and commitment, coming together to raise awareness about domestic violence while providing tangible support to those in need," said MWRD President Kari K. Steele, who organized MWRD's countywide participation. "Domestic Violence Awareness Month sheds light on an issue affecting many women in all communities, and we are proud of our team's dedication to supporting this important initiative."

This collection, led by the Cook County Clerk's office in memory of Clerk Karen Yarbrough, featured a photo montage and words of inspiration celebrating Yarbrough's dedication to the #LovePurse program and highlights President Steele's and MWRD's ongoing commitment to community support and outreach initiatives.

President Steele with #LovePurse Founder & CEO Maria Castro

Established in October 1987, Domestic Violence Awareness Month emerged from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence's initiative to unify domestic violence advocates in raising awareness and promoting resources for survivors. The month encourages support and recognition for individuals impacted by domestic violence and aims to foster preventive measures and community safety nationwide. According to the Cook County State's Attorney Office, an estimated 25,980 domestic violence cases are reported each year.

In 2024, Cook County has continued its efforts to support survivors through such initiatives like #LovePurse and those of the Cook County Domestic Violence Intervention and Support Services.

"I started this project in March of 2021 and today I am honored and humbled to say we have collected and donated over 14,000 purses for women in need," said Castro.

#LovePurse is based in Riverside, IL and is always seeking donations. With initiatives that reach across communities, #LovePurse works to spread kindness and make a difference, one purse at a time. Visit https://lovepurse.org/for more information. If you need immediate help, call 911, the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline at 877-863-6338, or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233).