volunteer, donate, be present
“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.”
-Ruth Bader Ginsberg
NOW is the Time: Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence
West KY NOW continues its support for the Merryman House, the state-designated and only certified domestic violence program in the Purchase District. The Merryman House’s mission is “to save, build and change the lives of those affected by domestic violence.”
As part of our commitment to Ending Violence Against Women, West KY NOW is collecting donations of new and slightly used items, as well as cash and gift cards, to assist women and families’ transition. Purchasing two of these items or donating cash or a gift card will help each family "move on" and arrive into their own home with basic items waiting for them.
From August to Oct. 22, 2026, donations can be brought to a West KY NOW chapter meeting or Sara Fineman’s office at 1205 Center Drive, Murray. Thanks for your kindness!
Requested items include:
Household Essentials: Pots and pans, Cooking utensils, Dishes, bowls, cups and silverware, Dish racks or drying mats, Trash cans, Laundry baskets, Hangers, Shower curtains and shower rods, Bathtub mats, Plungers, Mop buckets, Brooms and dustpans
Cleaning Supplies: Floor cleaner, Bathroom cleaner, All-purpose cleaner, Dish detergent, Bleach
Everyday essentials like: Toilet paper, Shampoo and conditioner, Body wash, Deodorant, Razors, Feminine hygiene products
Gift cards (please give these directly to Sara or Debbie): Walmart, Kroger, Amazon, Gas stations, Restaurants (chain locations for relocation), Laundromats, Salons for haircuts, Pre-paid bus passes, Auto parts stores
This donation drive is organized by the West KY NOW Ending Violence Against Women committee. For more information, email Sara Fineman at Sara@stepky.com or Debbie Batteiger at debbie.batteiger@gmail.com.
Mutual Aid
Mutual aid refers to the voluntary, collaborative exchanges of resources and services are made amongst community members to overcome social, economic, and political barriers to meeting common needs.
Help make a difference in our community by “Padding the Pantries”. Commit to donating Period Products each month (or more!) to one of the Mutual Aid/”Blessing Boxes” in our community. Can choose one that is near you. Check the PANTRY LIST HERE and please email us if you’d like to be added. Please also let us know if one of the boxes has been removed)
We recommend creating “period product bundles” providing an assortment of pads and tampons in a sandwich or quart size bag. If you would like, please print and include this handout of women’s health resources (print double sized and cut into quarters along the gray lines)
Mutual Aid Map of Western Kentucky and Southern Illinois
Thanks so much to Paducah Skies for creating this map of the Mutual Aid support available throughout the west KY region!
Mutual Aid/Blessing Boxes Donation Suggestions
Thank you to Brittany Sutherland from First Presbyterian Church, Murray for the list of suggestions based upon the needs of our community
Non-Perishable Foods
Low-sugar, sugar-free, and gluten-free options
Canned proteins (chicken, tuna, ham)
microwaveable rice pouches
Canned fruit
Spice mixes
Sauce mixes
Oil
Individually packaged, kid friendly snacks
Shelf stable milk
Personal care items
Soap, washcloths, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand sanitizer, period products
Kids personal care items (toothpaste, body wash)
Dishsoap, dishwashing detergent
Seasonal weather items:
Winter: hats, scarves, gloves, and hand warmers.
Summer: sunscreen and aloe.
Fall & Spring: Umbrellas
Bundles (consider bundling items together in large Ziplock bag)
Personal Hygiene (soap, washcloths, nail clippers, etc.)
Period Products (pads, tampons, wipes, sanitizer)
Dental (toothpaste, brush, floss, mouthwash)
Birthday (cake mix, frosting, baking pan, candles, oil, card)
Coffee (instant coffee, sweetener, creamer)
Tea (tea, sugar)
