Impact for Women is an organisation supporting women and families fleeing domestic violence.  

Davis House chose this organisation for our 2022 House initiative following the suggestion from Ella Jakobovits. The Founder of Impact for Women, Kathy Kaplan is a friend of Ella’s family and Ella has been volunteering annually at the organisation for as long as she can remember. 

Initially Claudia Bryant and I were looking for a charity with the colour red within, something typical for each House’s charity initiative. Further and more substantially to this, we were looking for a local foundation where we could make a greater impact. 

Since being in contact with Kathy, I have become increasingly grateful that Impact for Women is where Davis House has focused its attention and resources. I have ignited such a passion for this organisation. It has given me hope that I can make a difference to the domestic violence statistics in Australia, the ones that make my stomach churn to think about.  

Our Davis initiative is a drive for personal and household items that will be placed into Impact for Women’s ‘Bags of Love.’ Commencing at the start of the month and running until August 19, we are asking all St Catherine’s students and our wider School community to donate items that help make settling into new homes more comfortable and homely for individuals and families escaping domestic violence. 

When fleeing violence, women cannot stop to pack a bag. Anything we can provide to make them more comfortable is more than appreciated.  

What donations are required? 

• Personal hygiene items: shampoo and conditioner, bodywash and moisturiser, hairbrushes and dry shampoo, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. 

• Family/household items: pots and pans, cutlery sets, dinner sets, bed linens, mugs, books, notepads.  
• Treats/novelty: chocolates, fluffy socks, nice candles, tea, makeup, accessories. 

Where do I place my donated goods at School? 

Large laundry baskets are waiting to be filled with love in each Year level area! 

Can I help pack the donation bags? 

Yes! There are volunteering opportunities throughout August to pack the Bags of Love. Thank you to all our volunteers so far. We have one final packing session on Wednesday 31 August from 1.00pm to 3.00pm, so if you need some final hours for your Leadership Diploma or are looking for some good karma coming along and get involved. Packing is undertaken at the Impact for Women Warehouse in Sandringham. If you need further information, please email me on sdavis@stcatherines.vic.edu.au