In support of  designated the   United Nation's International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women  on November 26,  JSA/Hillel organized the second annual bathtub project to support women and children who are victims of domestic violence. 

A bathtub, donated by the Habitat for Humanity Re-Store, was filled at the University of Manitoba on November 25th     with donations of  slightly used clothing, household appliances, toys, books and new toiletries all of which were given to Osborne House a haven for women and children.

" The Tub was overflowing with donated item,s…10 boxes full of items were packed up," said Samantha Loxton, JSA?Hillel directo, who noted that Co-Chairs  of the project were  Alix Billinkoff and Lauren Tennenhouse of  the Social Action Committee of JSA/ Hillel.

The bathtub was moved to at the University of Winnipeg on December 2, where it was  was also filled with donations
 
With the support of the Gray Academy's Student Executive, a bathtub was also moved to the school on Nov 26-27 .

"For two days high school and elementary kids donated items into the tub.  Again, the tub overflowed with donated items.  About 20 boxes of items and baby furniture (high chairs, strollers, car seats were donated)," said Loxton.

Loxton said  that the  response has been 'overwhelming" both from the Jewish and local community, and about "800 people" participated in the project.r.

" I receive donations at my desk by anonymous donors for the bathtub project in addition to community members calling me and asking where they can drop off all their donated items. Some saw it  on T.V.or heard about it on the radio."


" We as students are completely capable of making an impact in someone's life, and should take every opportunity to do so," said Jennifer Schacter, past-president (University of Manitoba) of the JSA/Hillel.


Loxton emphasized that "The bathtub project is not only about asking for donations.. but it is about education. Men are part of the solution.  There are resources and supports in our community for men who take on the role of the attacker [or verbal abuser].  If we teach those men how to effectively deal with their anger and learn effective communication skills, … our community lower the statistics of persons who are victims of domestic violence."

"Although physical violence is the most obvious, many women suffer from emotional and psychological violence in a relationship, and struggle to leave such a relationship.   If you are ome who you know may be in an a domestic violent relationship and need some help, I would suggest call the Osborne House…. They have a 24 hour hotline.