Dear Friends/Family:
The holiday season brings lots of warm cheerful feelings. People will be looking forward to spending time with family members and friends, and making memories that can last a lifetime. But the reality for some this holiday season, will not be as cheerful, or even safe because their life is in crisis. Victims of domestic violence and stalking are constantly in a state of fear, anxiety, stress and depression – even during holidays. Rae of Hope, Inc. of Baton Rouge (www.JusticeForRae.com ), is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit founded nearly two years ago with a mission to help women, men, and children who have been victims of domestic violence and/or stalking by helping with counseling, shelter, food, clothing and financial assistance. I’m personally sending this letter asking you to stand with me to support this awesome organization.
Rae of Hope is compassionately named in honor of the beautiful Raolatu "Rae" Alowonle, a victim of stalking who was violently gunned down in her Baton Rouge, LA neighborhood in front of her son and sister. Her attacker also shot and wounded her 11-year-old niece while trying to take Rae’s life. Rae’s attacker had only known her a short time and became completely obsessed with her. In just a matter of months Rae found herself feeling vulnerable and constantly living in a state of fear. And although she felt this way, she had no idea that she would soon be murdered. We hope through Rae’s death, Rae of Hope will bring about awareness and positive change for current and future victims.
Did you know?
- 7.5 million people are stalked annually in the United States.
- Over 85% of stalking victims are stalked by someone they know.
- About 1 in 5 of stalking victims are stalked by a stranger.
- 11% of stalking victims have been stalked for 5 years or more.
- 46% of stalking victims experience at least one unwanted contact per week.
- 89% of women had also been stalked in the 12 months before their murder.
- 54% of women reported stalking to police before they were killed by their stalkers.
· Make an unrestricted financial contribution to support our programs and services
o Complete the accompanying pledge form attached to this email and send in a check or make a pledge
· Donate new toys for Rae of Hope’s Holiday Toy Give-A-Way
o Purchase a new toy to donate
o Ask family members, friends, co-workers, etc. to donate a new toy also
*** Toy donations should be delivered to: 4919 Jamestown Ave., Suite 204-F by Dec. 17th
I serve on the board of directors, and can attest to the important work Rae of Hope carries out. I hope I can count on your support by adding us to your holiday gift list. With donations from friends like you, our goal of continuing to grow our reach and services will become a reality. On behalf of Rae of Hope clients, staff, volunteers and board, I thank you!
Sincerely,
LaMeshia Harvey
Member, Board of Directors
501(c)3 non-profit EIN #4193162257
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