More than 1,500 people gathered March 30 to show support for local survivors of domestic violence at Hubbard House’s 15th Annual Stand Up & Stride Domestic Violence Awareness Walk. The event raises not only awareness, but funds for Hubbard House’s lifesaving, life-changing shelter and services.
“To see the passion here at this event, to feel your energy, and to know how strong your support is for local survivors of domestic violence and of Hubbard House … thank you!” said Hubbard House CEO Gail Patin.
A highlight of this year’s walk was the Impact Zone, an interactive display where event attendees joined to honor the 4,828 survivors and children Hubbard House served last year. This was accomplished by inviting Walk attendees to write a note on a “sun” and hang it on the display, with a “sun” to represent each person served.
While this is the 15th annual walk, Hubbard House has served the Jacksonville area since 1976. Patin credits those decades of service to the hard-working advocates at Hubbard House, and to the community that continues to stand with Hubbard House.
“When we stride together, as a community, the story of one survivor’s strength becomes the courage for us all to stand up and say, ‘No more domestic violence’,” Patin said.
This event was free to attend for the community, but money raised directly supports shelter and services for local survivors of domestic violence and their families. It costs about $75 to provide one night of shelter and services to one person, and Hubbard House provided 36,635 shelter nights last fiscal year. The total amount raised through the walk is still being counted, but it will exceed Hubbard House’s $100,000 goal.
“With my whole heart, to our community … thank you!” Patin said.
Another feature of the walk was the Family Fun Zone, with many family-friendly games and prizes. Hubbard House staff and volunteers also spoke with community members throughout the event to raise awareness about Hubbard House’s free, confidential resources, including emergency shelter, counseling, job coaching and more.
For any survivor of domestic violence who needs support, Hubbard House is here to help. Speak with trained, compassionate advocates through the 24/7 Hubbard House Hotline at 904-354-3114 or the 24/7 Hubbard House Textline at 904-210-3698.
