SNAP is Going to Rome! Here's How You Can Help

We are taking the fight to Rome and are standing up for all survivors on a world stage! From February 19-25, Board President Tim Lennon and Seattle SNAP Leader Mary Dispenza will be traveling to Rome for Pope Francis' Papal Abuse Summit. But these two brave leaders can't do it on their own, we need your help to make this trip effective.

Ensuring Survivors are Front and Center at the Pope’s Abuse Summit

SNAP will have a voice that we be heard around the world, reaching millions and giving hope to those suffering in silence. Mary and Tim are fierce advocates who will stand before the Vatican 'princes of the church' and demand justice while sharing stories and information related to abuse by both priests and nuns.

This is a huge opportunity as this will be the most media-covered Vatican event since the last papal election in 2013. While there, they will be working alongside partners Ending Clergy Abuse and Bishop Accountability.

Here's how you can be involved:

1. We believe that the only way this summit will be successful is if the Pope hears from survivors and learns from their first-hand experiences to gain the understanding of the scope of impact clerical sexual abuse has had on its victims and the world. SNAP will be standing by in the U.S. to answer any calls from media and are hoping that there are survivors compelled to share their stories with international media. If you interested in sharing your experiences with journalists, please contact Zach Hiner to be added to our list of contacts.
   
   
2. We've also invited SNAP survivors and supporters to write a letter to the Pope, as proposed by SNAP Leader Dottie Klammer and survivor Frank Collins. This is a chance to communicate your concerns, ideas and wishes directly to the Pope, bishops and other representatives of men's and women's religious orders.
   
   
3. We need your help to ensure survivor voices are front and center at this summit. Sending our contingent to Rome will cost SNAP over $5000. If each person that receives this email donates just $5 - the cost of a latte at Starbucks - we'd reach our goal in less than a few hours. Please consider supporting the cost of this trip as it is a major opportunity to effect change across the world.

We are grateful to you for your support and efforts on behalf of today's survivors and tomorrow's children!