05-04-2025
Beauty supply drive helping survivors of domestic violence
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (WMBD) — Shelters for survivors of domestic violence usually receive donations of clothes but there are some other helpful items that people may not consider.
'Our shelter goes off donations. So, a lot of times people aren't thinking about all the survivors we provide service to,' said Rachel Sizemore, program manager for the Countering Domestic Violence Program from Mid-Central Community Action.
The Neville House is a shelter for those escaping domestic violence. It's part of the countering domestic violence program which is an umbrella to Mid-Central Community Action.
'Our agency, all our services through the countering domestic violence program are free and confidential,' Sizemore said. 'So, that's specific to survivors in McLean County that have experienced domestic violence.'
The Neville House provides services for clients from different demographics. But the donations the shelter receives may not always match the need of the clientele.
'A lot of times our African-American clients, they are forgotten about when it comes to shelter and hair care needs,' said Sizemore. 'It wasn't too long ago that we had somebody in shelter that they didn't realize during an incident part of their hair got ripped out. So, we were searching for braids and hair care and treatment to try to assist them with masking those bald spots. And it was very limited.'
The Bloomington-Normal Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated has worked with the shelter to provide Christmas boxes for survivors. But when the chapter learned of the need for beauty supplies it was decided to host a drive beginning in March just in time for Women's History Month.
'As a sorority, one of our strategic priorities is to promote the economic empowerment of women and girls,' said Meta Mickens-Baker, President of the Bloomington-Normal Alumnae Chapter. 'So, supporting Neville House as women try to reestablish their safety and their independence after domestic violence really falls as a program that's close to us in our ability to support the community.'
This is the second year the organization has hosted the drive. In addition to supporting the economic empowerment of domestic violence survivors, the drive empowers a local black woman small business owner. The service organization teamed up with C&N Beauty Supply to collect items.'It helps your self-esteem. You know what I'm saying. Make you feel a little better. If you look good you feel good,' said co-owner Nate Caldwell.
'Being that they're going into these shelters with nothing, so being able to supply those personal needs and beauty needs to them I think it most definitely makes a difference to those in the shelter,' said co-owner Chiquita Caldwell.
You can shop at the store and leave products in a donation box. C&N Beauty Supply is located at 1305 Morrissey Drive.
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