NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact: Angel Charley
(505) 243-9199
or [email protected] 

CSVANW Kicks Off 3rd Annual Book Drive with IPCC to Help Children in DV Shelters Cope During Holidays 

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – November 17, 2017 – The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) will partner with the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center’s Shumakolowa Gift Shop once again for the 3rd Annual Giving Tree Book Drive this holiday season to help children who have experienced or witnessed violence cope through connection and storytelling.

Each year, the Giving Tree Book Drive serves to benefit children who will spend the holidays in a shelter due to domestic violence. Since its inception, CSVANW and Shumakolowa have donated more than 700 new Native American themed books for shelters throughout New Mexico.

“Providing books for children and their families helps create a sense of normalcy-we are giving children an escape from any trauma they may have been exposed to while directly or indirectly witnessing violence in their homes. Really, what we are doing is trying to help kids, be kids,” says Angel Charley, Membership and Outreach Coordinator for the Coalition.

“Studies show that children who witness violence in their homes may exhibit adjustment difficulties. These children also often have lower self-esteem and are prone to anxiousness, worry and fear. Reading provides a safe escape for them and an opportunity for connection,” says Charley. “The simple act of reading a story where a child may identify with the protagonist begins a healing process. We specifically partner with Shumakolowa because they are able to provide culturally-relevant options for our young readers.”

Books to donate may be purchased directly in person from the Shumakolowa Gift Shop located inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center at 2401 12th Street NW Albuquerque, New Mexico 87104 or online at www.shumakolowa.com.

The drive will operate now through December 18, 2017.