Don Jose de Ortega Chapter Daughters enjoyed the annual Holiday Party Potluck and Gift Steal. Joining this year were Susan Dawson, CSSDAR Women’s Issues Chair and Cristina Nissen, Development Manager for Haven Hills, Domestic Violence Shelter.

In conjunction with the NSDAR Women’s Issues focus on Domestic Violence Prevention, the chapter initiated a relationship with Haven Hills, a domestic violence shelter and resource that has been in operation in the west San Fernando Valley since 1977. One chapter member, a retired prosecutor with the DA’s office, is very familiar with this organization’s good works with domestic violence victims.

Ms. Nissen presented an overview of the organization’s services. Ms. Dawson spoke about the Women’s Issue focus carrying into 2020. Wish list items were collected during November and December and those items covered most of two 6 ft. tables including various clothing items, games, toiletries, diapers, blankets, tote/duffel bags and planners for victims to track their appointments.

Additionally, the chapter passed the hat resulting in funding for thirteen $25 gift cards and several checks to the organization. All-in-all this donation collection was a huge success.