IPSWICH — Department store giant Target has taken aim at domestic violence this year, doubling the money it donates annually to SAFE Studio. Deborah Moules, the studio's executive director, said the money, $2,000, will be used to help pay for a therapist who works with children who are the victims of abuse.
Survivor Art For Empowerment has been using art as part of a therapeutic program for victims of domestic abuse for the past 12 years. Target's money will go to a particularly needy cause, Moules said.
"We provided therapy service to 241 clients last year," she said, "and 218 were under 18 years old."
By providing therapy to youngsters, Moules hopes to break the circle of violence that often results in battered children becoming batterers as adults.
Moules said it's not unusual for big national chains to help out local charities.
"Home Depot has given every time I've asked," she said. "They've been so generous to us, and Best Buy, also."
Moules said donations are always welcome, no matter the size. Checks can be mailed to SAFE Studio, 18D Mitchell Road, Ipswich, MA, 01938.
