Senator DeFrancisco Recognizes the 15TH Annual Vera House White Ribbon Campaign

Senator John A. DeFrancisco (R-I-C, Syracuse) today praised Vera House for holding its 15th Annual White Ribbon Campaign aimed at raising funds for its education and awareness programs. The New York State Senate adopted a resolution, sponsored by Senator DeFrancisco, to recognize this year’s campaign.

The White Ribbon Campaign is led by concerned men who invite members of the community to wear white ribbons or wrist bands during the 10-day event to raise awareness and funds to stop domestic and sexual violence. This year’s campaign runs from March 27th to April 5th.

"Domestic and sexual abuse is a very serious issue and we are fortunate to have Vera House in our community," said Senator DeFrancisco. "This organization has been providing for woman and children for years, and through its emergency shelter and counseling services it continues to help the most vulnerable members in our community."

"Given the overwhelming number of women who are battered and abused each year, this campaign is particularly important," continued Senator DeFrancisco. "Not only does it raise funds to help those affected by domestic and sexual abuse, it also raises funds to increase awareness and educate our youth, so that the cycle of abuse does not continue."

Vera House provides emergency shelter to woman and families, offers a 24-hour crisis and information line, offers counseling and advocacy services, and administers community education programs.

For more information about Vera House and its 2009 White Ribbon Campaign please visit www.verahouse.org.