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Minot business starts “Fill a Purse” campaign for Domestic Violence Crisis Center

Kim Fundingsland/MDN Kassidee Keller, left, and Dave and Keela Forthun look at purses that are part of a “Fill a Purse” drive for Minot’s Domestic Violence and Crisis Center.

“Come on in. Pick up a purse.”

That was part of the message from Dave Forthun Tuesday as he explained a unique project that started somewhat by accident. Forthun was promoting a “Fill a Purse” campaign that originated on the spur of the moment when a few boxes of women’s purses came up for sale at a local auction house.

Forthun’s wife, Keela, and his granddaughter, Kassidee Keller, came up with the idea of purchasing the purses and then distributing them to people who would fill the purses with various items. The purses would then be given to Minot’s Domestic Violence and Crisis Center where they would help brighten the Christmas season for those in need.

“If it’s not a big enough purse to put extra stuff in, put items in a bag and bring it in,” said Dave Forthun. “We’ll take it all to Domestic Violence. They are excited about it.”

The purses are hanging on a wooden Christmas tree at Minot Restaurant Supply on Burdick Expressway west. People are asked to select a purse from the tree and fill it with donations of their choice, or they can choose another method of contributing.

“They can just bring stuff here and we’ll fill a purse,” said Keela Forthun. “Whatever is easiest for them. It’s a wonderful season to think about other people and we’re just glad to be able to do it.”

A list of suggested items for donation to the Domestic Violence and Crisis Center includes socks, pajamas and many personal care items. It is requested that all donations be either new or unopened.

“It doesn’t have to just be essentials. It can be something small that women would enjoy,” said Keller. “It’s Christmas and they may not be getting Christmas presents for their kids either.”

“We know there’s a lot of people out there who would like to contribute to something like this,” said Keela Forthun. “We’ve been very pleased with the initial response.”

Keller emphasized that not all donations have to be major contributions, adding that there’s ample opportunity for anyone who wishes to do so to participate in charitable giving.

“Lots of people want to donate but they feel it has to be a big donation. It doesn’t have to be,” said Keller. “You can donate even if you don’t have a lot of money. This is a great cause. It’s awesome to see how many people want to help their community.”

Dave Forthun said the purses are available to be picked up anytime during regular business hours at Minot Restaurant Supply or by contacting him at 721-3515. It is asked that all purses be returned by Dec. 13 so they can be delivered prior to Christmas.

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