Community Corner

Great Lakes Mall Collects 701 Purses for Abused Women

Shoppers donated the new and like-new purses for victims of domestic abuse

When Great Lakes Mall started its first-ever Power of the Purse drive in March, the mall didn't know how many purses shoppers would give to victims of domestic abuse.

"Our goal was 500," said Renee Lanzara, the director of marketing for the mall. "To exceed that by more than 200 is unbelievable. I'm pleasantly surprised at the support the community has shown this program."

The 701 donated purses will go to women who use WomenSafe, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency shelter and support for survivors of domestic violence in Northeast Ohio.

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The purse drive was a team effort from the Mentor mall and Mothers & More of Northeast Ohio, a nonprofit advocacy group for moms.

“We believe that a purse is symbolic of a woman’s economic power, but it is also a practical everyday item that can help her feel put together,” said Mothers & More member Marie Carroll.

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Lanzara said Great Lakes Mall plans to participate in the Power of the Purse next year.

"I definitely think that this will be an annual drive," she said.


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