Surprise residents are encouraged to participate in this year’s national “Wear Purple Day” on Thursday, Oct. 16.

Mayor Kevin Sartor officially proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the city at the regular city council meeting on Oct. 7.

Sartor made the proclimation in what the city called an effort to raise awareness and encourage the community to work together to eliminate domestic violence.

The city is hoping the day is used as a way to show support for victims and the organizations that assist domestic violence victims.

Once again this year, Surprise City Hall and the city’s Public Safety Building will be lit purple each evening during the entire month as purple symbolizes the national effort to support Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Statistics show that in the U.S., one in three adults will be the victim of an act of domestic violence during their lifetime.

The community can donate items such as shampoo and conditioner, body wash and soap, deodorant and razors through Thursday, Oct. 23 at Surprise City Hall,16000 N. Civic Center Plaza, in support of Hope Women’s Center. Call 623-222-1600 for a complete list of items survivors need.

The Surprise Resource Center, 12425 W. Bell Road, will display artwork created by victims and survivors of domestic violence. The artwork illustrates their experience and brings awareness to the effects of domestic violence in our communities.

Surprise also partners year-round with the Sojourner Center and Eve’s Place to offer support to domestic violence victims and survivors.