Last fall, our Radiation Oncology nurses chose Peaceful Paths, the certified domestic violence center serving Alachua, Bradford and Union counties, as the focus of their Magnet community service project. Inspired by the organization’s commitment to supporting survivors and families in crisis, the team set out to provide practical assistance to those who often arrive at emergency shelters with few or no personal belongings.
The project was spearheaded by Debra Hutchinson, MSN, RN, OCN; Sonia Cerlanek, RN, BSN; Tamara Handy, RN; and Melody Anderson, RN, OCN, who worked in coordination with Peaceful Paths Community Outreach Liaison Willow Walter.
In addition to 20 care packages of full-size toiletries gathered during the first collection drive in April, the group raised approximately $450 in donations for the organization during the second phase of the campaign this month.
“The initiative was a resounding success,” said Debra, Clinical Operations Manager. “I am so proud of our team and the results they achieved for families in crisis.”
Peaceful Paths provides a wide range of services, including a shelter, a 24-hour helpline, victim advocacy, children’s programming, economic empowerment education and support, crisis counseling and support groups, community awareness and intervention, and violence prevention programs.
