Press release:
State Sen. Michael Ranzenhofer, Assemblyman Steve Hawley and Congressman Chris Collins have pledged their support to participate in YWCA's Stiletto Walk: Making Strides Against Domestic Violence.
Hawley, Ranzenhofer and a representative from Collins' office plan to give a few remarks about the walk as they join others to raise awareness and funds for victims of domestic violence.
It's set to begin at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1 at John Kennedy Intermediate School, 166 Vine St. and end at YWCA, 301 North St., in the City of Batavia.
“Helping to protect women from domestic violence is something that should unite us all,” Collins said. “As a husband, father of two daughters and brother to five sisters, I am pleased Congress acted to reauthorize the historically bipartisan Violence Against Women Act earlier this year. Events like the Stiletto Walk and organizations like the YWCA of Genesee County help local communities come together to rallyaround this important cause.”
Everyone is encouraged (but not required) to put on a pair of women's footwear — whether it's a pair of pumps or sandals, slippers or pink sneakers — to simulate what it's like to "walk a mile in her shoes."
The number of victims walking into YWCA for services is unfortunately on the rise, but staff is grateful to have the opportunity to serve them, program Director Cindy Earl said.
This event will be a fun 1.3-mile walk meant to raise awareness that domestic violence still happens across the country and right here in Genesee County. It's the perfect kick-off for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, organizers said.
The walk is $20 with advance registration.
All proceeds will go to the YW's Domestic Violence Crisis & Prevention Services program, which serves approximately 700 new victims each year.
"We hope to get a big turnout from the community as a signal that domestic violence must end," Earl said.
The YW's second annual Community Harvest Supper will coincide with the walk, starting at 4:30 p.m. the same evening. This supper is a way to showcase local agricultural producers and highlight the importance of their work in this area.
Deadline to register for one or both events is Sept. 23. It's $20 for the walk and $8 for supper. Limited tickets will be available at the door. The cost goes up to $25 for the walk, $10 for supper or $30 for both the day of event.
For more information or to register, call (585) 343-5808, stop into the main office at 301 North St. or go to www.ywcagenesee.org.
For those who aren't able to participate, donations are gratefully accepted.
WHAT: YWCA's Stiletto Walk to Feature Steve Hawley, Michael Ranzenhofer and a rep for Chris Collins
WHEN: 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1
WHERE: John Kennedy Intermediate, 166 Vine St., Batavia
CALL: (585) 343-5808
