The Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers (MAPS) is marking this year’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) in October with a series of “Bazaars with a Purpose” to showcase survivors’ entrepreneurial talents and highlight the importance of financial independence.

In Lowell, the bazaar will take place on October 26, from 1 to 5 PM, at the MAPS office at 490 Central Street. The goal, said Dulce Ferreira, MA, Director of MAPS’ Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program, is to “help promote financial empowerment among program participants.”

“One of the biggest challenges survivors encounter in leaving abusive situations is financial dependence, which is why supporting them in building long-term, sustainable income is crucial,” said Ferreira. “Through these ‘Bazaars With A Purpose,’ participants have the opportunity to share their creativity and develop their entrepreneurial skills, whether through handmade crafts, jewelry, artwork, or other unique items.”

Throughout November and December, the bazaars will take place every other Sunday, starting November 9, from 11 AM to 3 PM, at the health and social services organization’s Cambridge office at 1046 Cambridge Street.

On October 17, MAPS will also promote a support group for Cabo Verdean women from 4 to 6 PM at its Dorchester office (1 Stoughton Street), and on October 24 at 7:30 PM, the organization will hold its “Entre Homens” online support group for men, which will include a viewing of a movie and a subsequent conversation. The following day, MAPS will promote its Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault program and its other services at a Community Resource Fair at Excel Academy Charter Schools in East Boston (401 Bremen Street), from 12 to 3 PM.

Throughout the month, as in previous years, MAPS will also attend several candlelight vigils in honor of victims of domestic violence in Cambridge (October 8, 5:30 PM, Cambridge City Hall) and Lowell (October 1, 12 PM, Lowell City Hall).

The MAPS Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program offers free, confidential, and personalized support, crisis intervention, safety planning, information, guided referrals, medical and legal advocacy, and related services to victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. To learn more about the program, please visit maps-inc.org/dvsa.

MAPS has served the Portuguese-speaking communities of Massachusetts and others since 1970. The organization offers many free health and social services through its six offices in Cambridge, Somerville, Everett, Dorchester, Lowell, and Framingham.