The community cannot save abused woman all at once. But it can save them, one woman at a time. That creed has inspired Sheree Diamond and Erica Heuwetter of Wellington to launch One Woman at a Time: Aid for Abused Women.
The organization will launch its inaugural event titled “A Huge Community Yard Sale Fundraiser” on Saturday, Sept. 29 and Sunday, Sept. 30 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day — on the eve of Domestic Abuse Awareness Month. It will take place at 658 Juniper Place in Wellington.
The organization aspires to identify and assist those abused women at the greatest risk for personal safety. Proceeds will benefit abused individuals and Harmony House, a Palm Beach County shelter and services organization that has assisted thousands of victims of abuse. Diamond is working with the community and Harmony House to identify women at serious risk, assisting them immediately.
The yard sale will feature baby clothes and equipment; children’s toys and clothing; designer handbags; women’s and men’s shoes, apparel and accessories; jewelry, household and office supplies; art, antiques and home décor; housewares, kitchen items, collectibles, exercise equipment, books, furniture and much more.
Having personally known several abused women, and becoming aware of many more victims, Diamond is spurred to assist the community. “With the fundraiser, we can all help,” said Diamond, who has two teenage daughters.
She asks residents to open their hearts and help. “We want you to know that if you help, you will be freeing one soul at a time from what could be a tragic end,” Diamond said. “Your donations will help us provide shelter, a vehicle, food, clothing and more to these needy women. So many women who aren’t strong will do what some have done so recently, see an end to their lives — so sad.”
Heuwetter’s passion for aiding abused women ignited as a young girl. As a survivor of abuse herself, she realized the importance that a community of caring women can bring to this type of cause. “Making the decision to end the cycle of abuse within one’s life is both empowering and critical for an individual’s healing and future well-being,” Heuwetter said.
They are accepting monetary gifts and gift cards for needy women, to grocery stores, department stores and gas stations, so they may stock up for themselves when they reach a place of safety.
For more information, contact Diamond at (561) 236-2441 or sheree@theflowdoctor.com, or Heuwetter at (561) 252-8522 or erica@thegingermom.com.
