Donation drive to collect essentials for survivors of domestic violence

In this screen grab, a Google Maps street view of IKEA in Edmonton is pictured. (Google Maps)

A community donation drive happening on Friday and Saturday will collect household essentials for survivors of domestic violence.

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Edmonton Shelters partnered with IKEA Edmonton for Stuff the Bin, which acts as both a donation event and an awareness campaign, said a release on Friday.

Over the course of the two days, shoppers at IKEA are invited to buy supplies – bedding, towels, kitchenware and small appliances – from an on-site wish list and drop them in a donation bin before leaving.

The items will then stock local shelters for the next six months. Donations are being spread out across multiple shelters partnered under Safe Futures YEG.

A release on Friday wrote that every year, thousands of people including women, children and seniors in the area seek refuge from domestic violence.

“Fresh bedding means a child has a safe place to sleep. Kitchenware allows a parent to cook their first meal in a new home,” said WINGS executive director Candace Smallwood in the release. WINGS is one of the shelters that will benefit from the drive.

“These simple items help turn an empty space into a welcoming home.”

In-store donations run Aug. 15 and 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monetary donations can also be made online.