JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As domestic violence is on the rise and many need help, Hubbard House is asking the community to partner with them to make the holidays a little brighter for survivors and their children this holiday season.
Hubbard House and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office says it’s seen an increase in domestic violence this year. More so than usual.
“So we are reaching out to the community in order to make their holidays a little bit brighter. And so we are asking for holiday meal baskets, new and unwrapped toys, gifts for adults and for children, and then to host donation drives where we can get things such as nonperishable food, personal hygiene products, things that you think you might need in your house," CEO Dr. Gail Patin said. "We obviously need in our shelter multiply that times 100 and shelter every day. And that’s a big need that we have.”
Toys donated to Hubbard House are used to stock the shelter’s toy store. Survivors can shop at the store for free and wrap the gifts for their children. Gifts donated for survivors are placed in a store for grown-ups. Then, with the help of advocates, children can shop for free in the store to get a gift for their parents as well.
Patin says that she wants survivors to know that they aren’t alone and they can get help.
“During this pandemic when we all are isolating more and we may be feeling a little bit lonelier. I want them to know that we’re still here. We’re here to help them. And they don’t have to go through this alone.”
Donated goods will be accepted at the Hubbard House Outreach Center on December 14 and 15. In all cases, due to COVID-19 and to ensure adequate staffing, drop-off appointments are required in advance and can be scheduled by emailing development@HubbardHouse.org.
Individuals who are in an abusive relationship, or know someone who is, are urged to call (904) 354-3114 or text (904) 210-3698 to connect with Hubbard House’s 24/7 Domestic Violence Hotline.