2 stores raise $30K for domestic violence outreach

Two Snohomish County convenience stores were among the top fundraisers last year for the “Give the Gift of Peace” campaign against domestic violence.

Jacksons Food Stores raise money every year to support domestic violence outreach and advocacy, spokesman Matt Jantz said. Stores in Washington raised nearly $30,000 in 2011. The company matches all of the donations.

The money from Washington stores goes to the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, a nonprofit.

The Jacksons stores along 128th Street SW in south Everett and 164th Street SW in Lynnwood were among the top 10 fundraisers in the state, coalition spokeswoman Kelly Starr said.

More importantly, though, the fundraisers get people in the community talking about domestic violence, she said.

Victims who hear people discussing domestic violence are more likely to come forward, because it makes them feel less alone, she said.

It is refreshing to see a private business get that conversation going, she said.

Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com