Sophia Wesley

On May 9th I will do something I have never done before — sit behind a table, look someone in the eye, and hand them a piece of my soul.

Midnight Garden will be available for purchase at the Spring Makers Market in Hillsboro, Oregon. And while I am equal parts excited and terrified about that, what makes this particular event even more meaningful is the cause it supports.

My friend and colleague Bethany has been hosting annual markets for a few years in support of the Domestic Violence Resource Center (DVRC) of Washington County. The DVRC was founded in 1975 when a domestic violence survivor recognized the lack of support for abused women in her community and decided to do something about it. Through one courageous act, she built something that has grown and transformed over the decades into an incredible and deeply necessary organization.

The DVRC offers counseling services at no cost to adult and child survivors, a confidential emergency shelter facility, transitional housing, a 24-hour crisis line, safety planning, and so much more. Having witnessed loved ones need these kinds of services, I know firsthand how critical they can be. So when Bethany asked if I would like to be one of the vendors at her Spring Makers Market, I didn’t hesitate.

There is something that feels profoundly right about bringing Midnight Garden — a book about surviving heartbreak, finding your way through the darkness, and arriving at self-love — to an event that supports women who are doing exactly that in their own lives. These poems were written for anyone who has known pain and chosen to rise anyway. I can think of no better room to bring them into.

There will be many local artists selling their goods and giving back. You can support the DVRC by coming to the market and bringing a donation from the list below. Other ways to support include monetary donations, food donations, volunteering, and hosting community events like this one.

Please follow this link to learn more about how you can give support —DVRC

Current donation needs:

• Shampoo & Conditioner 
• Body Wash & Lotion 
• Sunscreen (adult, child & baby) 
• Underwear Packs (all sizes) 
• Sports Bra Packs (all sizes) 
• Individually Packaged Snacks (granola bars, crackers, chips) 
• Grocery Store or Instacart Gift Cards

Please ensure all items are in unopened packaging.

I look forward to meeting new faces for a good cause. Whether you already have a copy of Midnight Garden or not — swing by and say hello. I would be happy to sign your book and hear about which poem found its way to your heart.

I hope to see you there.

🌙S

Resolu Cellars 262 SE 4th Ave Hillsboro, OR 97123 May 9th · 3–6 PM