In North America, 1 in 4 women experience domestic violence in their lifetime. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of cases has only increased, affecting the wellbeing of women and children alike. Troubled by these rising trends and inspired into action, the Chinmaya Mission Niagara community launched Elevate HERstory, a campaign to empower women experiencing violence. Initiated during the joyous and auspicious season of Navaratri and Dipavali, the unique social empowerment campaign sought to change the narrative, invoking and expanding Devi’s blessings to all.
Taking Gurudev’s powerful message that ‘women of the country mold its future’ to heart, sevaks from across the region raised over $33,000 for three women’s shelters at the frontlines of connecting women to support and services.
Supporting the potential of women has always been a priority in Chinmaya Mission: After all, Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda inaugurated some of the first study groups for Devis in November 1958. Taking Gurudev’s powerful message that “women of the country mold its future” to heart, sevaks from across the region raised over $33,000 for three women’s shelters at the frontlines of connecting women to support and services. Beyond emergency housing, the resources raised funded comprehensive legal, educational, and health programs for women and children experiencing violence.
Entering the new year, with these inspired efforts from more than 1,000 seekers, the Chinmaya Mission Niagara community met its aspiration $100,000 for society in 2020. Unto Him Our Best!
[…] November 2020 Elevate HERstory campaign, which raised over $33,000 for three prominent women’s shelters in […]