Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a substantial surge in domestic violence cases around the world. Almost every country struggling with the pandemic has observed increased calls by women who are facing abuse and violence every day.  India alone observed a 94% increase in calls for help during the lockdown. While the COVID-19 pandemic is now showing a declining trend, violence against women continues behind closed doors.

In view of the same, the Purple Ribbon Collective has started this fundraiser to aid survivors of gender-based violence. We will be donating the entire proceeds raised in this fundraiser to our partner Shakti Shalini, an NGO based in  Delhi, which runs a Shelter Home and a Crisis Intervention Counselling Centre for domestic violence survivors as well as provides them legal aid and mental health support.

The Purple Ribbon Collective (PRC) is a student-led initiative that aims to increase awareness and discourse around gender-based violence and the rights of the survivors. Conceptualised in May, 2020-  PRC aims to provide comprehensive support to victims by connecting them to pro-bono lawyers, NGOs or counsellors based on their needs, location and financial standing. We have already conducted online fundraising events and are continuing to do so even now.

We are starting this fundraiser to help reach our goal faster, with the generous support and contributions by all those who wish to help.