Police in the Shaler area are equipped with a new tool to help victims of domestic violence.
The Shaler Area Rotary Club in March began distributing 60 comfort bags containing essential hygiene items and simple comforts to the police departments in Shaler, Reserve, Etna and Millvale.
Each department received 15 duffel bags that contain a blanket, bath towel and washcloths, soap, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, a coloring book and crayons, two pairs of women’s and toddler’s socks, a first aid kit, two bottles of water and a $20 Shop ’n Save gift certificate.
The bags mirror those that the Northern Allegheny Rotary Club gave to McCandless police in July. Cindy Skelley, who chaired the project for that club, is the wife of Wayne Skelley, who belongs to the Shaler Area Rotary.
They are intended to help women who have to leave their homes quickly for a shelter, Wayne Skelley said.
“This is something to help her feel a little more comfortable and at peace,” he said, adding the bags are meant to contain things that shelters either do not have or are in short supply. “I hope it helps.”
A letter in each bag conveys that the club hopes its contents brings “a small measure of comfort, dignity and support during this difficult transition.”
“While we know this bag cannot meet every need, it was packed with compassion and the firm belief that you deserve kindness, respect and a sense of care from your community,” the letter says.