Laurel House to Hold Benefit Walk This Weekend in Norristown

Laurel House, the Norristown-based domestic violence agency that offers protection and services for abused women across Montgomery County is partnering with the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes organization for a benefit event this Saturday, May 4, at the Norristown Farm Park. The event will be held rain or shine. Check-in begins at 9 a.m., opening remarks at 10 a.m. and the walk kicks off at 10:45 a.m. 

The event is aimed at encouraging men to stand up against sexual assault and gender violence, calling attention to the issue by having them literally walk a mile in women's high heels. Preston Elliot, of the popular Preston and Steve Show on WMMR, will emcee the event.

The Walk a Mile in Her Shoes Walk is an international movement founded by Frank Baird in 2001. According to the group's website, the walk has grown from a small gathering of men to a worldwide movement that raises money for local rape crisis centers, domestic violence agencies and sexual violence prevention education programs. 

"We are very excited to be participating in this year’s walk," Beth Sturman, Executive Director of Laurel House, wrote in a release about the event. "The Walk a Mile in Her Shoes walk is a great way for men to get involved with helping raise awareness about gender violence."

"There is such symbolism in putting on a pair of heels and marching with other men in them," wrote Sturman. "In doing so, these men are letting the world know they are choosing to put themselves in the shoes of abused women and give this particular group a voice."

Adults and children ages 16 or older can register for the event online here For more information contact the event planning committee at philly.wam.girls@gmail.com. Registration is $50 plus a $2.24 fee. 

For more information on Laurel House visit the nonprofit's website or contact them at 610-277-1860.