Suburban business, volunteers help domestic violence survivors begin a new chapter

When a woman escaping domestic violence moves out of a temporary shelter, she often leaves with very little. A suburban company’s act of kindness is helping survivors get the essentials they need to begin a new chapter. Irv’s Luggage in Vernon Hills is an ongoing supporter of Luggage for Freedom, which provides women leaving shelters with a gently used suitcase packed with new towels, sheets and toiletries. The business recently held a packing event at the Wheeling Park District, where around 100 volunteers packed and sorted 450 suitcases and 400 backpacks for kids. “We collect all these items throughout the year,” said Renee Silverman.“We fill the luggage with items that we think are necessary for them to start over. We hope we are conveying the message that we see you, we hear you, we think of you, and we care about you.” Janis Douglas has been volunteering for several years. “My heart is overflowing, overflowing. I got involved about three years ago just as a packer, a