Painting pumpkins with Safe Passage

COEUR d’ALENE — For the North Idaho nonprofit group Safe Passage, events like Saturday’s pumpkin painting in downtown Coeur d’Alene serve as a chance to show the community what they offer as a resource during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 

“Everybody knows somebody, or has been somebody, who has experienced violence in the home,” said Kristin Moody, Safe Passage’s Community Engagement Advocate.  

Established in 1977, Safe Passage is “the largest agency serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, and child abuse in North Idaho,” according to the nonprofit’s website.  

Members of the community were invited to paint pumpkins during Saturday’s free event, as well as learn about the resources and services Safe Passage offers — all of which are also free and confidential.

“Education is the first step to prevention,” Moody told The Press. “That’s why we do events like these, to bring the community together for a common cause where they can see what we do. Today is a fun, lighthearted way to tackle a tough topic in the community.” 

Safe Passage is holding their biggest event of the year, EnVision: Creating a Community Free from Violence, this Wednesday at 5 p.m. at The Coeur d’Alene Resort. The event will feature a silent auction, food and drinks, and more.  

“This event represents a renewed commitment to our mission and provides a platform to highlight the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead,” said Amanda Krier, executive director of Safe Passage. 

Tickets for EnVision are currently sold out, but donations are still being accepted at safepassageid.org.