At the Variety Power of Women Los Angeles event, Purina awarded actor and entrepreneur Sarah Hyland with the first-ever Variety Courage Award for her commitment to supporting domestic abuse survivors. Hyland, a survivor herself, has been vocal about the importance of pets as companions and sources of healing for those escaping abusive situations.
Hyland's recognition builds on her work with the Purple Leash Project, an initiative from Purina and nonprofit RedRover that helps domestic violence shelters accommodate survivors' pets. Julie Bowen, Hyland’s former Modern Family co-star, presented the award, highlighting Hyland’s courage and advocacy. "Sarah's courage to stand up for herself has inspired countless others to do the same," Bowen remarked.
Hyland spoke about her own experience in her acceptance speech. “There was a time when the only being I could trust...was my dog, Barkley. He got me through the worst years of my life,” she shared, stressing the critical support pets provide in survivors’ lives. According to Purina and RedRover, nearly half of domestic abuse survivors delay leaving abusive relationships due to concerns about pet safety. Since 2019, the Purple Leash Project has provided over 55 grants to help shelters become pet-friendly, and they aim to expand this to 25% of shelters by 2025.
In support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Purina also displayed the "Courageous Together" statue by artist Kristen Visbal at the event, depicting a woman and her dog united by a purple leash—a powerful symbol of resilience and mutual support for survivors and their pets.
Reflecting on Purina's mission, CEO Nina Leigh Krueger said, "Through art and open conversations...we can help reduce the stigma of shame for survivors and increase awareness and support."
Adapted from a press release.