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State Senator Shelley Mayer partnered with LifeWay Network’s “Safe Housing Program” for a toiletry drive in recognition of human trafficking awareness month. The drive was held from January 5 through January 27 and had four drop off locations throughout Senate District 37 including Yonkers Will Public Library, Mamaroneck Public Library, Pound Ridge Town House, and Senator Mayer’s District Office in White Plains. 

Senator Mayer and LifeWay’s Safe Housing Program collected full-size items, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorants, moisturizers, and feminine hygiene products. 

Thanks to the contributions of community members, LifeWay Network estimates that the donations will cover more than 4,000 night’s worth of supplies and will support both their residences for the remainder of 2026.

Senator Shelley Mayer said, “I am grateful for the generosity of so many in my district who donated toiletries to support survivors of human and sex trafficking. So many of us do not think twice when getting ready in the morning—we have everything we need. But that is not the reality for everyone, especially those working to rebuild their lives. I am deeply proud to be part of a community that consistently helps our neighbors in need. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Yonkers Grinton I. Will Public Library, Pound Ridge Town House, and Mamaroneck Public Library for allowing us to use your spaces as donation locations. Thank you to all who contributed, and a special thanks to Ali Boak, Pound Ridge Council Member and Executive Director of LifeWay Network, for your partnership, efforts, and lifelong advocacy—as well as the entire LifeWay Network team for their outstanding work in supporting victims of trafficking. I also would like to extend a special thanks to St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church Youth Fellowship, for putting extra care into creating bags of supplies for survivors.”  

Alison Boak, Executive Director, LifeWay Network, said, “LifeWay Network is deeply grateful to New York State Senator Shelley Mayer for her leadership and generosity in leading a toiletry drive in honor of Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Her commitment helps ensure that survivors have access to the dignity, care, and essentials they need as they rebuild their lives. We also thank Senator Mayer for her ongoing dedication to justice, equity, and the protection of women’s rights—values that are vital to creating safer, more just communities for all. It’s so heartening to see the community’s overwhelming response! The toiletries we received will supply the women we serve through the end of 2026, allowing LifeWay to provide more than 4,000 safe nights of housing.” 

LifeWay Network’s Safe Housing Program is one of only two programs in New York’s metropolitan area that provides safe housing for women survivors of human trafficking and is the only program that offers safe housing for both domestic and foreign-born survivors of labor and sex trafficking.