By Judy Clabes
NKyTribune editor
The Salvation Army is always ready with a helping hand, providing a wide range of services for the needy, but its “Women’s Empowerment Day” is in a special class all its own.
The annual event — in its 4th year — reaches out to women who have experienced terrific trauma and treats them to a bit of uncommon pampering — that starts with a shampoo and a hair cut.
There’s more for these women victims of domestic abuse, human trafficking, homelessness and more. The event has become a kind of all-services fair so that women can learn about options they have never realized were available.
Volunteers, organizations, and vendors provide haircuts and shampoos, do nails, offer information about services, and generally show the women first class attention.
The Salvation Army offers a special closet for the women to choose clothing, purses, and shoes to prepare for their job interviews. Undergarments have been added to the mix.
To have so much help available in one place shows the women that they have the “support of a loving community — and of other women,” say the Salvation Army staff.
Each of the women get a “goodie bag” — which includes feminine hygiene products and lots of “samples” — and a lunch. Child care services are provided on site.
Many of the legion of volunteers required for the event are former clients who enjoyed the services — and want to give back.
Most of the donations for the event come from individual donors.
Donations to the Salvation Army are welcome and can be earmarked for this event. In-kind donations are encouraged as well — gently used clothing, purses, shoes and accessories can be given year round.
Checks can be made out to the Salvation Army, 1806 Scott Boulevard, Covington, KY. 41014. In kind donations can be dropped off there as well.
To donate to the Salvation Army — which puts your donation into a multitude of free services for the less fortunate — click here.