Thanksgiving is a time for reflection and giving back to your community. For Bunnie XO, that meant working with women and children who have been impacted by domestic abuse. The podcaster and influencer has endured a period of domestic abuse in the past. It spanned three years, from 2013 to 2016.
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In what she hoped would be a liberating moment for women throughout the country, Bunnie uploaded a photograph of herself with a black eye.
"I shared that photo in hopes that women could see, 'Okay, she's been where I'm at and she gets it,'" Bunnie told Extra. "I want somebody that I can relate to, and I hope these women know that I have been exactly where they are, and I just wanna lift them up."
Uploading that image certainly took guts. Yet in turn, it was likely liberating, both for Bunnie herself and the millions of women stuck in abusive relationships. However, her efforts went far beyond raising awareness of the situation online.
" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">Bunnie XO Provided Thanksgiving Meals for Families Affected by Domestic Abuse
Bunnie partnered with the Mary Parrish Center. The organization, based in Nashville, provides housing options for those impacted by domestic abuse. On Thanksgiving, Bunnie used Mary Parrish to distribute care packages and meals directly to the people who needed them.
None of this should come as a surprise. Both Bunnie and her husband, Jelly Roll, have made no secret of their philanthropic efforts, giving back to the community and working with charities close to their hearts.
In a time where good deeds often come with strings attached, Bunnie's efforts are genuine. As someone who navigated the difficulties that come with being in an abusive relationship, she can relate to other victims. By using her platform to bring attention to the issue, which is rife across countries around the world, she put it firmly back in the spotlight.
Also worth noting, Bunnie confirmed that she gives back every year, it's just that usually there isn't a camera crew present.
Everyone deserves relationships free from domestic violence. For confidential support 24/7/365, you can call 1.800.799.7233 (SAFE).
