The Otepoti Dunedin Whānau Refuge fundraising committee is preparing for its annual designer clothing fundraiser being held tomorrow, with proceeds going towards the refuge.
The refuge offers safe housing, a helpline, educational programmes, advocacy and other services aimed at helping women escape abusive relationships.
The event will feature designer clothing donations from brands, including Paris Georgia, Trelise Cooper, Thing Thing, Flo & Frankie, Annah Stretton and Twenty-Seven Names.
"The sample sale is a super-fun event — everyone wins and everyone’s happy at the end of the day. There are great bargains on beautiful designer clothing, and we raise a lot of money for the refuge," committee co-leader Rebecca Bridgman said.
Last year, the committee raised nearly $67,000 for the refuge, setting a new record and surpassing the previous year’s total of $66,000.
Ms Bridgman said last year’s fundraising efforts helped buy new beds, linen and duvets for the refuge, as well as creating a new "tamariki space", giving it a homely feel.
"The safe houses are now filled with cosy, new items to create a comforting environment."
This year, part of the funds would be used to make the refuge’s new offices a safe and welcoming space for visitors.
As a final-year student, she enjoyed connecting students with the community and making a positive impact, Ms Bridgman said.
"Ideally, our community wouldn’t need the Whānau Refuge, but there is that need.
"If we as students can do something to support them, then the work we put in is worth it."
She was continually inspired by the community’s generosity.
"It is encouraging to know that others believe in the work we are doing to support the Whānau Refuge," she said.
Co-leader Julia Newman said she valued the connections and stories shared by those the committee supported.
"I think there is a wide range of abuse that we are unaware of and getting involved and meeting with some of the ladies who take time to come in and talk with us before the events begin is really valuable," she said.
Originally a Law for Change initiative, it had since transformed into an independent committee focused on supporting the Ōtepoti-Dunedin Whānau Refuge.
"Domestic violence is prevalent in our community and often goes unreported," Ms Newman said.
"I’ve learned from the women at the refuge that there are many forms of domestic abuse beyond physical or financial, and anyone in our community might need their services."
About 65 students were involved in the committee, contributing to five events: the designer sample sale, an auction, a quiz night, a bake sale and a charity gig.
Ms Newman said these events were "not just for women" and everyone was welcome to offer support or get involved.
The designer clothing sample sale will take place at 343 George St from 10am to 3pm tomorrow and will require a gold coin donation on entry.
Cash and eftpos will be accepted, but payWave will not be available.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own bags.
