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Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office collecting donations for Sojourner House

By Kelcey Norris Mahoning Matters

October 5, 2023 2:42 PM

Gina DeGenova Zawrotuk, Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office’s public information officer and chief assistant prosecutor. FILE

The Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office is hosting a donation drive to support domestic violence survivors for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“So many people in our community are affected by domestic violence that we want to raise awareness and provide resources for victims,” said Prosecutor Gina DeGenova.

Domestic Violence Awareness donation drive

The prosecutor’s office coordinated with Sojourner House, a COMPASS Community and Family Services program in Youngstown.

Sojourner House provides shelter and other essential services to victims and survivors of domestic violence across the county.

The two departments figured out what people at Sojourner House needed most. They made a wish list of items to request from community members.

The following new items are being accepted during the month:

twin sheets XL with pillowcases
standard size pillowcases
baby wipes
baby clothing
teething rings
all sizes of diapers and pull-ups
all sizes of socks
hairbrushes
toothbrushes and toothpaste
deodorant
adult and children lotion
facial cleansers
hair care products
all sizes of sleepwear (especially plus size)
gift cards to grocery stores

Drop off donation items in two locations: the lobby of the Mahoning County Administration Building at 21 W. Boardman Street in Youngstown and at the Mahoning County Courthouse, located at 120 Market Street, Youngstown.

You can drop off items from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday during October.

“We see the need for these items firsthand. Each day, our Victim-Witness Coordinators and members of our Violence Against Women and Children Unit work to protect the rights of victims of domestic violence and to ensure that their abusers are brought to justice,” said DeGenova.

South Range Local School District students will also hold a district-wide donation drive for Sojourner House.

Any students who wish to donate items may drop them off at their schools.

Any other schools who wish to participate can contact Alan Rodges, director of communications and community outreach for the Prosecutor’s Office. (Email: alan.rodges@mahoningcountyoh.gov, Phone: 330-740-2330 ext.7396)

“If you know someone who works at the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office, please give them your donation if you can’t make it downtown,” DeGenova said. “Every donation counts.”