Running until December 10, the theme this year is taking action to stop domestic violence.

Since it started in 1991, more than 1700 organisations in 130 countries have participated in 16 Days to help raise awareness that violence against women is a violation of human rights.

Bega Valley residents are joining the international campaign to help make their local community a safer place for women and children. 

Events this year include a poster competition called Art for Peace, where children and young people are asked to work with the theme of choosing non-violence.

The posters will be displayed at Bega library throughout the 16 days,

On December 5 there will be a White Ribbon Day street stall held in Littleton Gardens from 9am until noon.

Local service providers will be distributing information, white ribbons and “Say No to Violence” wristbands.

Organisers ask the community to support the 16 Days campaign by wearing the white ribbon, which shows the person has made a pledge not to commit, condone nor remain silent about violence against women and children.

For further information about 16 Days events in Bega Valley contact Gabrielle Powell at Women’s Resource Centre on 6492 1367.

THE Bega Valley Domestic Violence Transport Project began in 2013.

It assists women and children who are unable to access private or public transport when escaping or recovering from domestic violence situations.

Target groups include women living in isolated towns of the Bega Valley who may not have a driver’s licence and/or are disadvantaged through socio-economic circumstances.

The project was initiated by the Southern Women’s Group (SWG) and the Bega Valley Domestic and Sexual Violence Committee (BVDSVC) after receiving funding from the NSW Department of Transport and Infrastructure.

The project is working closely with the Bega Valley Community Transport Service and its existing travel voucher system.

Vouchers will be allocated by community service staff and the project will be overseen by the BVDSVC.

For more information call the Women’s Resource Centre 6492 1367.