This blog post was written and submitted by East Falls nonprofit organization Andree Collective
Andrée Collective is a nonprofit social enterprise located right in East Falls. We serve survivors
of trauma including domestic violence and human trafficking through therapy, financial literacy,
and employment in the wedding and events industry. Through our wedding and event planning,
coordination, and floral services, we create hands-on employment opportunities for women in
our transitional employment program while generating revenue that helps support our nonprofit
programs.
While many domestic violence and human trafficking organizations focus on crisis intervention,
there is a lack of support for women after they leave abusive situations. This transitional period
is often the most vulnerable time, as survivors struggle with financial insecurity, housing
instability, and emotional trauma. Without economic stability, many survivors feel forced to return
to their abusers. Due to the many barriers, it takes survivors an average of seven attempts to
leave before they leave for good, perpetuating the cycle of violence. Andrée Collective exists to
provide opportunity, support, and stability during that crucial time, with a vision of a Philadelphia
where no woman has to return to her abuser.
October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a time to support
survivors and take a stand against abuse. The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic
Violence reports that 1 in 3 women experience domestic violence in their lifetime, a reminder
that this issue touches every community. One of the biggest barriers survivors face when
working toward independence is financial insecurity. Financial abuse is present in approximately
99% of domestic violence relationships, and many of the women we serve are low-income,
receive public benefits, or are experiencing housing insecurity. Unfortunately, SNAP benefits
cannot be used to purchase many basic necessities, including toilet paper, toothpaste, soap,
shampoo, and other personal care items. In honor of DVAM, we are hosting a toiletry drive to
support survivors in our community. These essential items can provide comfort, dignity, and
relief as women rebuild their lives after abuse. Donations will be readily available for survivors to
access when they visit our office for therapy or employment, as well as when we connect with
participants and community members at local events.
Please consider supporting our toiletry drive by purchasing an item from our Amazon Wishlist or
making a donation to Andrée Collective to help fund our programs and services. You can also
stop by our booth at East Falls Fest on October 17th to drop off toiletry donations and purchase
a fresh flower bouquet from us!
Visit our website www.andreecollective.org for more information
