A Fresh Start
Authors: Chelsey Bowman, Evaleen Brown, Connor Miskill, and Teri Shoop
Faculty Supervisor: Nicole Masano MSN, RN, CNM, CNE
Description:
"A Fresh Start" involves CCGA BSN nursing students and Safe Shelter, a shelter for victims of domestic violence in Savannah, GA. This project addresses the importance of maintaining a personal hygiene regimen, especially in times of crisis, as a preventative measure to avoid further medical issues. To educate the victims of domestic violence, personal hygiene kits were constructed, containing toiletries and a brief brochure stressing the importance of personal hygiene. To fill the bags, a mini-grant was applied for but less than requested was awarded. In order to supplement the grant funds, the team decided to sponsor a donation drive in the community. At the conclusion of the drive, it was found that the community had donated supplies that far exceeded expectations. The drive was also featured on WTOC news and involved in a “bingo night.” Through community involvement, awareness of domestic violence and maintaining health impacted an audience larger than originally anticipated. With an increased awareness in the community, it is possible that “A Fresh Start” may catalyze future endeavors to not only help victims of domestic violence but also educate them and the entire community.
