Domestic Violence Center of Santa Clarita Valley officials hosted their 3rd annual Purple Walk of Strength Saturday to offer support to victims and survivors of domestic violence.

About 120 people participated in the 5K walk at the College of the Canyons track and running trails, each wearing a white shirt that was “purpled” as they crossed the finish line.  

“Purple is the color that signifies domestic violence,” said Tiffany Suwa, the center’s office manager. “It’s for our clients to be able to signify that they are strong, and they can overcome all of the abuse that they encounter in their lives.”

The walk brought together those who have overcome a domestic violence situation in their lives and those who are still in the process.

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“Of the clients that participated today, some are complete success stories and some are ones who are still in the trenches and working,” Suwa said. “But to see the smiles on their faces as they finish the walk is something that’s priceless.”

In addition to offering support, the walk also acts as a fundraiser for the SCV Domestic Violence Center’s shelter and outreach center and is a way for center officials to raise awareness within the community.

“We love to get the community involved in that we can get the awareness out there that domestic violence goes across all aspects– all socio-economic aspects, all religious aspects and all cultural aspects too,” Suwa said. “It occurs everywhere. A lot of people don’t want to see it but it does, and we’d love to get the awareness out there.”