Lending a Helping Hand to Victims of Domestic Violence

The Murthy Law Firm Philanthropy Committee recently conducted a donation drive and spent a day volunteering at the House of Ruth Maryland, a nonprofit organization committed to aiding victims of domestic violence. Client service representative Nia Gray, legal assistant Vanitza Perez, technology department liaison Erin Kelso, attorney Joel Yanovich, and paralegals Mona Thabet, Cliff Doby, Rachel Elsroad, and Rebecca Gorton spent an afternoon working at the emergency shelter, a 23-bedroom, 84-bed facility in Baltimore that provides a safe haven to individuals and families who are forced to flee their homes to escape domestic violence. The group organized toy and clothing donations for those living at the shelter, many of whom arrive with few personal possessions. They were also given a tour of the facility by Faith Savill, the House of Ruth’s community relations specialist.

Mona, who coordinated the event, was struck by how the shelter strives to provide a warm and welcoming environment for its occupants. “They essentially make boutique stores where the families can shop while staying at the shelter. They have stores with clothing and accessories [available for] free.” Erin noted, “While the task was simple, I knew the purpose of the work was really important.” Founded in 1977, the House of Ruth Maryland also provides a range of services including counseling, service coordination, and abuse intervention programming to Baltimore and surrounding communities.

In the weeks leading up to the volunteer event, the committee collected donations for the House of Ruth’s emergency shelter from Murthy Law Firm team members. Nearly 300 items, including clothing, books, toys, food, and toiletries, were collected. More information on providing help to – or getting help from – the House of Ruth is available online. Led by the Philanthropy Committee, the Murthy Law Firm will continue to serve and enrich our community with future volunteer events.

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