T-shirt design contest to raise funds for DASI

Lafayette - Domestic Abuse Services, Inc. (DASI) and Olde Lafayette Village have joined together to present “Shirt Stories from the Heart,” an event to raise funds for direct assistance to families impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault. Individuals and groups can purchase and create T-shirts in advance, or can come to Olde Lafayette Village Hall from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 7, to design a T-shirt on site, where shirts will be displayed in an effort to raise awareness of the problem of interpersonal violence. Prizes will be awarded for the most creative shirts, judged by Carol Decker, wildlife artist. “Shirt Stories is a unique fundraiser because it makes a difference in three ways,” said Linda Cappaze, Olde Lafayette Village general manager. “It will raise funds to provide direct assistance for families being helped by DASI, it will foster awareness of the issue of interpersonal violence in our community, and it will offer a fun-filled creative activity for the whole family.” The proceeds will establish a family assistance fund to benef families in need of immediate or emergent help in establishing a life free from violence and abuse. Domestic Abuse Services, Inc., is a private, non-profit agency, which has provided services to survivors of domestic violence and their children in Sussex County since 1984. The group also administers the Sexual Trauma Resource Center for survivors of sexual assault, incest and childhood sexual abuse. In addition to providing emergency shelter, counseling and advocacy, Domestic Abuse Services, Inc., is committed to the prevention of violence through community education and prevention programs. T-shirts may be ordered or picked up at Olde Lafayette Village beginning April 8, and must be returned for display by May 4. All proceeds benefit the family assistance fund. “Shirt Stories from the Heart” is sponsored by Olde Lafayette Village and DASI in partnership with Hobby Town USA, and the New Jersey Herald. For information, call 973-383-8323. Survivors of abuse in need of assistance can call the DASI 24-hour hotline at 973-875-1211, or 973-875-6369. Collect calls are accepted.