On the evening of Friday, 8th May, the Rapecrisis Midwest headquarters suffered a break-in. While no money was taken or personal data compromised, several rooms were damaged.
Rapecrisis Midwest helps survivors of sexual abuse and violence. They provide comprehensive information, professional support, and quality counselling service for those affected. They provide a fantastic service for the Midwest region and all for free.
“A charity very close to my heart”
Following the break-in, volunteer Jantien Schoenmakers felt she needed to do something to help raise some money. “It’s a charity very close to my heart,” says Jantien. “I help with marketing, collection buckets at the Milk Market, and coordinating students during the Rape Crisis Midwest big annual quiz fundraiser in Thomond Park.”
Jantien’s idea was to hold an online charity auction with 100% of funds going to Rapecrisis Midwest. This will help raise funds to repair the rooms and replace items damaged during the break-in. “Their logo is a red phoenix and while they will rise again from the ashes, more powerful than before, it would be nice to give them a hand to get there!”
Artisits show their support
A number of artists have kindly donated pieces to the auction. These include Gary O’Donnell, Emma Langford, Alexandra van Tuyll, Isabella Gaborit, Aisling McGinn, Jimmy Murphy, Yvonne Teskey and Roisin Crowe. Local artist Ken Coleman has offered to do a commissioned piece and will work directly with the highest bidder. Here is a small selection of the pieces up for auction:
The auction will take place on Facebook from Saturday 1st August at 12 noon and continue until 6 pm on Sunday 9th. The event page for the auction can be found here. If you’re not on Facebook, you can take part by emailing [email protected].
If you want to support Rapecrisis Midwest without buying art, you can donate on https://www.paypal.me/RapecrisisFund! Every single cent is going straight to Rapecrisis Midwest.
To find out more check the Auction’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/RapecrisisCharityAuction/