Welcome to GFWC Punta Gorda Woman's Club
C.A.R.E. The Center for Abuse & Rape Emergencies
Our excitement for an event supporting the abused women's shelter through the C.A.R.E. program stems from the incredible opportunity it provides to bring hope and healing to survivors of abuse. This initiative is more than just an event—it’s a powerful demonstration of solidarity, compassion, and action in the face of adversity. By raising funds for the shelter, we’re directly contributing to:
- Safe Haven: Providing women and children with a secure environment where they can rebuild their lives away from violence.
- Empowerment: Supporting programs that enable survivors to gain independence through education, job training, and counseling.
- Essential Services: Ensuring access to necessities like food, clothing, and medical care, which are crucial during recovery.
A Lifeline of Hope and Empowerment!
Offering Hope Where There Was Despair
There’s incredible satisfaction in knowing your efforts are bringing warmth, care, and joy to women and families during their most vulnerable moments. Each small act of kindness creates a ripple effect, offering hope where there was despair and turning challenges into opportunities for growth. The act of helping others not only enriches your own life with purpose and compassion but also fosters a deeper connection to your community and humanity as a whole. It’s a chance to be part of a shared mission, where every contribution—no matter how small—plays a vital role in transforming lives and building a brighter future.
C.A.R.E. Project Delivery Day – Bringing Hope & Help!
C.A.R.E. Project Contributions – A Catalog of Generosity
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The C.A.R.E. Project – A Mission of Compassion and Impact
Since its inception in 1983, C.A.R.E. has been at the forefront of addressing poverty, inequality, and crises in Charlotte County. The organization provides emergency relief, education, healthcare, and resources to women and families in need, fostering safety, healing, and empowerment for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes in Charlotte County.
This event symbolizes the collective commitment of our club and community to stand up against abuse and foster a culture of care. Every donation, and every volunteer effort is a step closer to creating a brighter future for those in need. It’s truly inspiring to see the impact we can make together, and that’s why we’re so passionate about this cause—it allows us to be part of something transformative.
Our Connection:
GFWC Punta Gorda Woman’s Club partners with C.A.R.E. to further their mission of improving lives and empowering women, aligning closely with our club’s values of service, advocacy, and community support.
Women seek shelter through the C.A.R.E. program for a variety of critical reasons, often tied to escaping unsafe or unstable living conditions. These include:
- Domestic Violence: Many women turn to shelters to escape abusive relationships and find a safe space where they can begin to heal and rebuild their lives.
- Homelessness: Women facing eviction, financial hardship, or lack of stable housing often seek refuge in shelters to avoid living on the streets or in unsafe environments.
- Crisis Situations: Natural disasters, human trafficking, or other emergencies can leave women without shelter, prompting them to seek immediate assistance.
- Support Services: Shelters provide more than just a roof—they offer counseling, legal aid, job training, and other resources to help women regain independence and stability.
- Confidentiality and Safety: Shelters prioritize privacy and security, ensuring that women and their children are protected from harm.
The C.A.R.E. program, in particular, focuses on empowering women by addressing their immediate needs while also providing long-term solutions to help them achieve self-sufficiency. It’s a lifeline for many women during their most vulnerable moments. Through donations and fundraising efforts, our club plays an active role in supporting C.A.R.E.’s programs.
Here are some of the key ways we contribute:
- Comfort and Care: Providing essential items such as pajamas, slippers, socks, toiletries, pillows, and stuffed animals to bring warmth and solace to those in need.
- Women’s Empowerment: Supporting initiatives that promote gender equality, leadership, and access to education for women and girls.
- Sustainable Solutions: Backing programs focused on building resilient communities through economic development and environmental stewardship.
A Team's Dedication to the C.A.R.E. Project
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Incredible Team!
To everyone who dedicated their time, energy, and generosity to making this event a success—thank you! Your commitment and generosity have played an invaluable role in supporting our efforts to help strengthen its mission and extend its impact.
From sorting and organizing to loading up and delivering, each effort has helped bring this vision to life. Your dedication to service and community truly shines, and we could not have made it happen without you.
Here's to the power of teamwork, compassion, and making a difference—together! ❤️
Mary Darling, Chairwoman
From Survivor to Advocate: My Story
A Journey of Strength and Advocacy, As Told by Mary Darling
My journey in Punta Gorda began in 2004 when we purchased our first home here. For several years, we were "snowbirds" until we sold our business and our Michigan home, making Punta Gorda our permanent residence. In 2006, I joined the Woman's Club, and by 2007, I took on the role of chairman for GFWC's signature program, "Domestic and Sexual Violence Prevention."
This cause is deeply personal to me, as I am a survivor of domestic abuse. Years after freeing myself from my abuser, my daughter tragically became a victim herself—losing her life at the hands of her husband. While I carry the heartbreaking reality that I cannot change what happened to Amy, I dedicate myself to supporting others who face similar struggles. It fills me with pride to see the incredible work the Punta Gorda Woman's Club does to champion this cause and make a difference.