A light in the dark: Emplify Health illuminates skywalk purple for survivors of domestic violence

GREEN BAY - This October, in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Emplify Health is shining a light on the issue through the Purple Porch Project. At Emplify Health by Bellin Green Bay Hospital, the Webster Avenue skywalk has been lit up since Oct. 1 with purple lights - a visible symbol of hope, solidarity, and support for survivors of domestic abuse. Today, the health system held a news conference spotlighting the initiative with a key community partner, Golden House.

The Purple Porch Project stems from a national initiative implemented locally by Golden House, a safe haven for domestic abuse victims. The Project is a "visible act of solidarity," inviting individuals, families and organizations across the community to display purple lights and stand together against domestic violence. The illumination of the hospital's skywalk is a powerful reminder that domestic violence affects far too many and that help, hope and healing are within reach. National statistics show an estimated one in four women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

"The Purple Porch Project is more than a display of purple lights - it's a statement that our community refuses to look the other way," said Meika Burnikel, Golden House Executive Director. "When organizations and community members step forward and illuminate their spaces in purple, it sends a clear message to victims and survivors: you are seen, you are believed and you are not alone. This initiative brings critical awareness to domestic violence and reminds us all that ending abuse is a community-wide responsibility."

The Purple Porch Project isn't just a Brown County effort. The initiative is taking place across the Emplify Health enterprise, with a skywalk lit up in purple at Emplify Health by Gundersen La Crosse Hospital as well - extending the message of support and solidarity to survivors throughout the region.

"At Emplify Health, caring for the whole person and the whole community is at the heart of who we are," said Heather Schimmers, RN, MBA, president of Emplify Health. "Domestic violence is a public health issue that touches the lives of many of the patients and families we serve and even employ. By supporting the Purple Porch Project and lighting our skywalks purple across the health system, we are standing alongside Golden House and survivors everywhere - signaling that we see them, we support them and we are committed to being part of the solution."

Help is always available. There are numerous community resources, including Emplify Health, Golden House and the 24/7 free phone service at 920-212-SAFE.

To learn more about the Purple Porch Project and Golden House's options for support, please visit golenhousegb.org or 920212safe.com.