Reps. Chu & Napolitano Kick Off 12th Annual Collection Drive

Today, Reps. Judy Chu (CA-27) and Grace F. Napolitano (CA-32) joined Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Park and other local partnering organizations at a press conference at the Monrovia Community Center to kick off the 12th Annual Domestic Violence Collection Drive.

“Domestic violence occurs in every community and cuts across all ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds. Knowing the warning signs – like intimidation, or isolation – can be lifesaving, which is why Domestic Violence Awareness Month is so important,” said Rep. Chu. “But escaping a domestic violence situation is one of the biggest and most difficult steps a victim takes in turning her life around. And that is why we started this drive. I am proud to once again be hosting this drive to help women who have made the courageous choice to leave their abusers to get back on their feet. For the past 11 years, I have been amazed at the outpouring of support and love that we see during this drive. I look forward to another successful year and encourage all of our residents to contribute to this effort. Every item is a small but incredibly significant step to helping these victims and their families take the first steps toward liberation and empowerment.”

“It is a privilege to continue working with Congresswoman Chu, Kaiser Permanente, and so many other local heroes in our fight to end domestic violence. The compassion and generosity of our San Gabriel Valley communities have provided items and resources for more than a decade to brave survivors and their families,” said Rep. Napolitano. “The emotional wounds inflicted by domestic violence are often invisible, so increased mental health awareness is critical to ensure those in need seek help. We thank you, and again, invite all to lend support through donations and words of encouragement.”

Joining Reps. Chu and Napolitano at the press conference was a survivor of domestic violence as well as representatives from partnering organizations, including Maggie Pierce, Executive Director—Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Park; Dr. Victor Cheng, Physician In-Charge—Kaiser Permanente Diamond Bar; Ken Muche, Public Relations Manager—Verizon Wireless; Patsy Wilson, President, General—California Federation of Women’s Clubs – San Gabriel Valley District; and Ana Interiano, Director—YMCA San Gabriel Valley – WINGS.

The month-long drive, part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, will collect gently used women’s and children’s clothing, household cleaning products, toiletry items—no BREAKABLE items, please—and other donations that will be distributed to victims at shelters throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Donations can be dropped off at Rep. Chu’s district offices in Pasadena and Claremont, Alhambra City Hall, Altadena Community Center, Altadena Senior Center, Arcadia Community Center, Arcadia Woman’s Club, Joslyn Adult Recreation Center, Garvey Community Center, Monterey Park City Hall, Rosemead Community Recreation Center, San Marino City Hall, South Pasadena City Hall, South Pasadena Woman’s Club and Kaiser Permanente facilities in Baldwin Park, Diamond Bar, Montebello, San Dimas, and West Covina.

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