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U.S. gender wage gap grows for first time in a decade; Trump has embraced NC's Mark Robinson, calling him 'Martin Luther King on steroids'; Volunteers sought as early voting kicks off in MN; Women's political contributions in congressional races fall short of men's.

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Rising threats of political violence, a Federal Reserve rate cut, crypto industry campaign contributions and reproductive rights are shaping today's political landscape.

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A USDA report shows a widening gap in rural versus urban health, a North Carolina county remains divided over a LGBTQ library display, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz' policies are spotlighted after his elevation to the Democratic presidential ticket.

Fundraiser Spotlights Financial Aspects of Domestic Violence

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Thursday, September 25, 2014   

YAKIMA, Wash. - The recent high-profile domestic-violence cases in the news have fueled a public demand that the crime carry serious consequences. But a fall fundraising campaign examines a different type of consequence for the victims of abuse. The Purple Purse Challenge raises awareness of the economic abuse that is often part of a volatile relationship.

Amy Flynn, director of fund development with the YWCA of Yakima, says finances are among the complicated reasons so many women stay instead of finding safer alternatives.

"Complete control of the finances; no access to checkbook, cash, the credit card, nothing like that," Yakima says. "So, someone wouldn't have the means to leave a relationship that has become abusive."

She explains purple is the color that represents domestic-violence awareness, and a purse is the hub of many women's financial lives.

The YWCAs of Yakima and Kittitas County are both part of the Purple Purse Challenge. They're among 140 organizations raising money through Oct. 3, to help women who have left abusive relationships and regained their independence.

Flynn says the Allstate Foundation, which sponsors the challenge, has offered weekly incentives for groups doing the fundraising, from high-fashion purple purses to raffles, giveaways, to matching some donation amounts. She adds, behind the fun are growing needs for a serious cause.

"We provide emergency family shelter, advocacy-based counseling, and legal advocacy," says Flynn. "We have support groups and, you know, we talk a lot about domestic-violence awareness in our communities. These funds help provide those very important services."

The YWCA of Yakima's goal is $100,000. It is the largest provider of domestic-violence survivor services in central Washington. The fundraiser ends as Domestic Violence Awareness Month begins in October.


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