Nearly $4,000 and more than 750 household items were collected for use in domestic violence victim safe houses during a “Community Shower” thrown by Soroptimist International of Auburn members this spring.

“People donated everything from microwaves, dishes and towels, to a cargo van,” said Soroptimist President Nadine Toles. “It was wonderful to see such support for a definite area of need in our community.”

The Chrysler van, valued at $4,700, was donated by Soroptimist member Mary Stanton. The Kiwanis, Rotary, Lions and Optimist clubs also came forward to make donations. The Calvary Community Church Women’s Group from Sumner took on the project and donated $200, plus over 50 items.

In addition to the group and individual donations, the project benefited from a $2,400 grant from King County Councilmember Pete Von Reichbauer’s Community Services fund. The funds and items collected have been given to South County Outreach, a non-profit organization whose current projects include providing safe houses for domestic violence victims.

Michael Hursh, director of South County Outreach, is appreciative of the donations.

“We are so grateful for the tireless efforts of the Soroptimist Club of Auburn and their support of South County Outreach in its care of women and children who have been victims of domestic violence,” Hursh said. “The community shower was an incredible event that gathered a large supply of regularly used items which are in constant demand.

“Having these supplies immediately available has greatly improved the Outreach’s ability to respond quickly in preparation. Thank you to all of the community partners, service clubs, etc., who made this possible.”

The theme for Soroptimist International of Auburn’s Community Shower was “She’s Left (an abusive relationship) and Needs Our Help.” The main goal of the shower was to collect household items to furnish safe homes for domestic violence victims in Auburn. These victims and their children often leave abusive situations with nothing but the clothes on their backs. The safe houses provide them with shelter and protection so they can begin rebuilding their lives.

Soroptimist International of Auburn was chartered in 1947. The club’s 52 members focus on raising money for women and girls in Auburn and throughout the world. The majority of the club’s funds are raised each year through its annual fundraiser, Cupid’s Caper. In 2007, the club raised more than $59,000 through the annual dinner, dance and auction. The club’s current identifying project is the prevention of domestic violence. The initiative is under the leadership of Cheryl Sallee, Identifying Project Committee Chair.