A PAGEANT winner and mum from Taunton has donated nearly 200 Easter eggs to the Somerset Integrated Domestic Abuse Service (SIDAS) for children and families living in safe accommodation.
Sarah Kana-ah, who holds the national title of Ms Atlantic as part of Miss Atlantic United Kingdom, collected the Easter eggs from generous individuals and businesses from across Somerset.
She won the title last year and will crown her successor on Saturday, April 23 at the Radlett Centre in Hertfordshire.
SIDAS is a specialist service that provides support to men, women, and children who are affected by domestic violence.
Speaking about her Easter egg collection, Sarah said: “I want to thank everyone who has supported my collection and helped make a difference to those in need at Easter.
“I couldn't have done it without the help and support from the people of Somerset.”
Over the last two years, Sarah has collected Easter eggs for the children’s ward at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.
Sarah, who is a survivor of domestic violence, wanted to support refuge accommodation and safehouses this year because it is a “very personal” cause.
“I’ve experienced physical, sexual, and emotional abuse which resulted in anxiety, so I know full well what it’s like to hit rock bottom,” she said.
“When you’re in a domestic violence relationship, you’ve been made to believe that you aren’t good enough for anyone.
“When people make the step to leave their homes and move for protection, they usually have to leave very quickly, often with very few possessions and very little money, and a long way from friends and schools, so small gestures like this can be a great deal to them.
“I know how much the Easter eggs will be appreciated by the children who are facing such disruption in their lives.
“Knowing that someone out there is thinking about them, looking out for them, and reminding them that they are safe will mean absolutely everything.”
During lockdown, Sarah launched ‘Empower – Protecting Women’s Safety’, a private Facebook group for domestic violence survivors that teaches basic self-defence techniques and helps them build confidence and self-esteem.
“I want to continue being a symbol of strength to others to help them realise they are enough and that they can get out and live a happy, safe life,” said Sarah.
“The advice I'd give to anyone going through abuse is to get out and seek help and guidance from family and friends or a local domestic violence service like SIDAS or REFUGE.”
After receiving the donations, Hayley, who works as a domestic violence and abuse worker at SIDAS, said: “Thank you Sarah for donating all these Easter eggs for our families to enjoy within Somerset.
“They have been gratefully received – smiles all around!”.
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