Did you know that 1 out of 4 women have been affected by abuse? How about that 98% of all domestic violence cases consist of those feeling financially trapped and therfore find it hard to leave their relationships? As the ambassador for the Allstate Foundation Purple Purse, Kerry Washington is bringing attention to both domestic violence and financial abuse through a unique way…her purse. The purse was inspired and designed by Washington and was revealed on yesterday with rave reviews!

The purple purse is not just a fashion piece, but a statement. The color represents domestic violence while the purse itself symbolizes a woman’s power. As Washington puts it, “Financial well being, a sense of ownership and a sense of self resides in our purses.” Because women who are in abusive relationship feel trapped and don’t have the resources to leave on their own, the organization provides a help by raising money for those who want a way out.

If you would like to help, just make a donation to any of the organizations that is apart of the Purple Purse Challenge at www.purplepurse.com. If you donate at least $10 you will also be entered to win a free purse (1 of 3 styles designed by Washington) from now till October 3rd. Good Luck!

Signs of people who may be abused:

•Talk about their partner’s temper, jealousy, or possessiveness

•Check in often with their partner to report where they are and what they’re doing

•Have their spending tightly monitored and restricted by their partner

•Receive frequent, harassing phone calls from their partner

•Worry excessively about how their partner will react to what are commonly thought of as simple, everyday purchases

•Seem afraid of or anxious to please their partner

If you or you think someone you know might be in an abusive relationship please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for help.

Photos courtesy of People’s Style Watch & Getty Images