Love Grace: Millane family donate handbags to victims of domestic violence

Multimedia Journalist·NZ Herald·

14 Nov, 2019 06:03 PM3 mins to read

Grace Millane, the British backpacker who was travelling the world when she was murdered in New Zealand, was farewelled with mourners singing Amazing Grace at her funeral service. / BBC

The family of Grace Millane are collecting handbags to donate to domestic abuse victims in a bid to "continue the legacy" of their lost loved one.

Hundreds of women in need have already received a handbag filled with toiletries and a special note signed "Love Grace x".

Tied to each bag with a white ribbon, the note details that Millane was taken from them on the eve of her 22nd birthday whilst travelling in New Zealand.

"[Grace] was a loving, family orientated free spirit with a beautiful caring nature, who was a loyal friend and enhanced the lives of all who were lucky enough to meet her.

"Grace's family have created the legacy in her name by fundraising for the White Ribbon charity, promoting awareness to end male violence towards women.

❤️❤️
Posted by Love Grace x on Monday, 11 November 2019

"To continue this legacy, we have created 'Love Grace' bags. Donated in memory of our amazing Grace, which contain everyday essentials that we hope will be of benefit to you and help you on your road to a safe future.

"Believe in yourself no matter what."

View this post on Instagram

It’s true what they say... “Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you” ❤️

A post shared by Love Grace (@lovegrace_uk) on Oct 6, 2019 at 11:39pm PDT

An Instagram page for "Love Grace" bags has gathered nearly 2000 followers after it was launched on August 29.

The most recent post is a video of Grace at her graduation ceremony walking on stage to collect her certificate.

Other posts show the hundreds of bags being collected and distributed, as well as photos of the Millane family.

View this post on Instagram

We are all so proud of everything you achieved ❤️ What an absolute pleasure to watch you graduate in Lincoln Cathedral. We will get justice for you Gracie ❤️ #justiceforgracemillane #graduationday

A post shared by Love Grace (@lovegrace_uk) on Nov 14, 2019 at 8:25am PST

Meanwhile, the trial into Grace's alleged murder continues with the Crown yesterday closing its case against the 27-year-old man accused of killing the British backpacker on the night of December 1 last year.