PROJECTS
Zonta SAYS NO TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Our advocacy work relating to the human rights of women and girls includes involvement in International Women’s Day activities, the 16 Days of Activism Against Domestic Violence on the Central Coast and most recently advocating against homelessness for older women.
We participate in and lead campaigns to raise awareness of the impact of domestic violence and abuse. On average in Australia, one woman dies each week due to domestic violence.
In 2021 for the 16 Days of Activism against Domestic Violence, Zonta Club of Central Coast co-ordinated an art installation on 18 trees at Terrigal Beach to promote action against domestic violence. Many local organisations participated in this project which created widespread interest.
This project was repeated at Woy Woy and Ettalong in 2022 and will be on view at Wyong in 2023.
2021 Yarn Bomb art installation at Terrigal Beach to promote action against domestic violence
Assisting Homeless Women
On the Central Coast, homelessness has grown 35% over the past 5 years*. Older women are 9 times more at risk of homelessness than the general population.**
Zonta Club of Central Coast is working in partnership with government, local services and agencies to provide practical assistance to homeless women in our region.
Allawah House at East Gosford is an example of collaboration between agencies and volunteer organisations. Our club provided brand new towels and homewares for the older female residents as well as assisting with the set up of the rooms and living spaces.
*Source: Central Coast Affordable Housing Strategy 2020 ** University of Adelaide Report, 2020
Walk in My Shoes Displays
The “Walk in My Shoes” display is part of the “Zonta Says No to Violence” campaign to raise awareness of the impact of domestic violence. It is held in Shopping Centres, Schools, Clubs, Churches etc.
It is a compelling display of shoes, each with a quote from a woman who has escaped domestic violence.
The display is intended to provide the public with insights and education as they read the cross section of quotes and stories, inspire those currently in the situation of domestic violence who believe they can't leave and to celebrate the courage of the women who have succeeded in leaving domestic violence behind them.
