The cycle of domestic violence includes the following phases: tension building, the act of abuse and the honeymoon, in which the perpetrator is apologetic. This cycle is destined to forever rotate, creating a household environment of instability and terror.

The Friends and Neighbors of Every Woman’s House exist to interrupt this cycle with their unwavering support. Their events raise funds for Every Woman’s House, which, in turn, provides shelter services, victim advocacy, counseling and community education.

Beginning in 1988, the group had just 12 members. Currently, members are able to determine their own level of participation and which activities they assist with.

The Gift Market is one example of their efforts; a bonus fundraising affair in the midst of their bigger activities. The Gift Market will take place on Saturday, Nov. 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Edgewood Middle School, 2695 Graustark Path in Wooster.

The event will feature Tracey Renee Crochet, BeautiControl, Calla Lily Yarn & Gifts, Walnut Street Gallery, Lynn’s Ladle, Arbonne, The Pampered Chef, Sandy’s Beaded Jewelry, Off The Cuff Designs, Sonja Tugend Textile Arts, Silpada Designs, The Gourmet Cupboard, Cookie Lee Jewelry, Thirty One Gifts, Premier Designs Jewelry, Discovery Toys, Scentsy Candles, Ceramics by Jamie Lenhart, Tastefully Simple, Close To My Heart, Sophia’s Hair Clips, Mary Kay, Longaberger, Usborne Books & More and Beads N Beans.

Additionally, when asked what the appeal is for The Gift Market, Linda Runion, board member of Friends and Neighbors of Every Woman’s House, said, “I think it’s the quality of the vendors that are there. People are excited to see them. And it’s a good cause.”

The market has been held for the past three years, and attendance has doubled each time, evidence of its growing popularity. Runion also explained that when they started, they had just eight vendors. They now have 20. Attendees have the opportunity to pick up some excellent Christmas gifts while helping their own neighbors.

The Friends and Neighbors organization of Every Woman’s House encompasses more than 900 members. Combined, they perpetuate a different kind of cycle; one of compassion, assistance and support.

The Gift Market will also be complete with edible goodies: cupcakes, muffins, coffee cake and coffee will offer a tasty reprieve from the shopping. The bake sale is another draw for the event. Last year, they were able to raise more than $2,000, as the vendors donate a portion of their profit to the cause.

“I think (for) a lot of people, it (domestic violence) hits home. There’s someone in the family, a friend, someone that they have known that maybe could have used the services that they (Every Woman’s House) provide,” Runion continued.

She also spoke of the fundraiser they are most known for: Holiday House. Every other year, a homeowner allows local merchants to festively decorate their home for the community to tour. This is the event they began with all those years ago.

“The Gift Market is one of our little side ones that just is something fun to kind of fill in,” Runion added.

Runion said the Wayne County community is very generous to their group, so another great turnout is expected. Further, she said, there are other craft shows on the same day, so this one fits right in. And not only is this introduction to the holidays a nice jump-start for Christmas shopping, it’s also vital to the eradication of domestic violence. It may be the most guilt free shopping you do all year.

For more information on Friends and Neighbors of Every Woman’s House, visit their website at http://friendsandneighborsewh.webs.com/.