The Allstate Foundation and Actress Rosario Dawson Unite to Battle Domestic Violence and Raise $350,000 for YWCA

NORTHBROOK, Ill., Oct. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Domestic violence happens 145 times every hour in the U.S. It affects more women than breast cancer, lung cancer and ovarian cancer combined. As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, The Allstate Foundation has partnered with actress Rosario Dawson for the Purple Purse campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the role finances play in helping survivors break free from violence. In its third year, The Allstate Foundation Purple Purse campaign has pledged to donate up to $350,000 to the YWCA for programs that help domestic violence survivors gain the financial knowledge and resources needed to live independently.

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"As an advocate to end violence against women, I have come to learn that the shame surrounding domestic violence is a barrier to talking about the issue," said Dawson. "Purple Purse provides victims and those who support the cause with information and resources they need to take the necessary actions to break the vicious cycle with confidence." 

This year, more than a thousand purple purses filled with domestic violence information will be distributed throughout the U.S. The goal is that each purse gets passed between family, friends, community leaders, celebrities, media and Allstate volunteers sparking important conversations and educating the public about the issue. The Allstate Foundation will donate $5 each time a purse is checked-in at PurplePurse.com. In addition, every time a virtual purple purse is shared at Facebook.com/PurplePurse, The Allstate Foundation will donate $5 to the YWCA.

"One of every four women will live in fear of their spouse or intimate partner. We all know them. They are our family members, colleagues, friends and neighbors," said Vicky Dinges, vice president of corporate responsibility at Allstate. "Purple Purse, an Allstate Foundation program, provides a less threatening way to get people talking about the issue and have those important conversations."

The purple purse is a symbol for the financial empowerment of domestic violence survivors. PurplePurse.com helps provide a safe place to learn about domestic violence. It includes conversation starters, ways to spot signs of abuse and steps to gain financial independence.

"The YWCA is the nation's largest provider of resources to empower women from all walks of life who face dangerous and even life-threatening situations at home," said Dara Richardson-Heron, M.D., CEO of the YWCA USA. "We are so thankful to Allstate for providing us with generous fundings through Purple Purse to help our local associations continue providing safety, support and education to the many women and children affected by domestic violence."

If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799 SAFE (7233) or TTY 1-800-787-3224.

About The Allstate Foundation 
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people's well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes: safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.AllstateFoundation.org.

About YWCA 
The YWCA is the voice for every woman. For over a century, the YWCA has spoken out and taken action on behalf of women and girls. The YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Over 2 million people participate each year in YWCA programs at more than 1,300 locations across the U.S. For more information, visit: http://www.ywca.org

SOURCE The Allstate Foundation