Jersey Women’s Refuge invite Islanders to Join The 21K Club

“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much” Helen Keller

JWR is seeking 21K Islanders to set up a direct debit of £10 a year (or more) to help raise £210,000.00. JWR is Jersey’s only independent Domestic Abuse Charity which has been supporting local families since 1988.

The 21K Club was officially launched at (soon to be opened private members club) Anna’s in Halkett Street who graciously provided the launch venue, with refreshments being kindly sponsored by JWR partner, Integritas Wealth Partners.

Launched with support from Soroptimist International Jersey, Jersey Women’s Refuge dedicate its work to ensure women and children are safe from domestic abuse. Providing a 24/7 service, in 9 months JWR has assisted 312 women and children both through our Refuge and also Outreach service and group support.

“Understanding that the last 18 months has been surreal for all of us, we are hoping to galvanise the Jersey Community to join the 21K Club and support our vital work”, explained Marine Oliveira, Manager, Jersey Women’s Refuge.

“Over the years we have always relied on the support from islanders to ensure our services keep running 24/7. Today, for our charity to keep up with the demand, we need 21,000 islanders to pledge ongoing support. We believe people power is the way forward. We are most encouraged by the feedback the 21K Club campaign has already received, with many islanders coming up with ways of how they, friends and family will rally support for JWR through this innovative campaign.”

CLICK HERE TO MAKE YOUR PLEDGE.

“As we navigate through these unprecedented times, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who continues to support our vital work,” commented Ben Robins, Chair of Jersey Women’s Refuge.

“We are very grateful for the essential funding we receive from the Government and the ongoing understanding of individuals and organisations whose charitable giving ensures we can deliver independent, professional, round the clock support to the women and their families who face such difficult and frightening situations. Tragically, the demands on our services are growing every year, with the annual budget now in excess of half a million, so we continue to seek people’s help and support to cover JWR’s costs.”

“Ensuring we are here for local families during some of the worst moments of their lives is critical. The last 18 months have meant many are facing increased anxiety and pressure which can make it even more difficult to reach out for help. As a result, our services are needed now more than ever”, explained Marine Oliveira, JWR’s Manager.

“As the only independent domestic abuse charity in the Island offering 24/7 support, outreach services, helpline and group work, we simply could not function without the assistance we have received from the Government, and the in kind and financial donations from the many very generous individuals, church groups, parishes, trusts and local businesses.”

To kick off the campaign, JWR partnered with the incredibly talented JCG Chamber Choir. During lockdown, the Choir brilliantly performed Helen Reddy’s famous anthem, ‘I am woman, hear me roar.’ The film was sponsored by Integritas Wealth Partners. JWR are grateful to the JCG students and all their corporate partners such as Integritas Wealth who continue to support the charity to make things possible such as this compelling film from the talented students at JCG and their teacher who skilfully orchestrated the online performances, Mr John Bowley, Head of Music at JCG.

With the draft domestic abuse law just released for consultation, the team at JWR have been encouraged by the focus given to the domestic abuse agenda locally and looks forward to Jersey passing this most needed legislation in the near future. In the meantime, they hope the Jersey community will be keen to join the 21K Club to help them support those who need their assistance.

To learn more about the work of Jersey Women’s Refuge please contact Hello@jerseywomensrefuge.org.