Washington – October 11, 2026 -- Soccer fans can buy a limited-edition, U.S. Soccer-licensed scarf where 100% of each purchase goes to RedRover, helping domestic violence survivors stay together with their pets. The Courageous & Comfy Soccer Scarf launched alongside Purina's Purple Leash Project appearance at the U.S. Women's National Team match against Spain at Audi Field.
Mariska Hargitay served as Honorary Captain for the coin toss
Purina, the Official Pet Care Partner of the U.S. Soccer Federation, invited actress, producer and advocate Mariska Hargitay to join the match during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Hargitay, a longtime Purina partner, took part in the pre-match coin toss alongside Cassidy, a 75-pound Golden Retriever, and her handler, Patrice "Pat" Eller.
Cassidy and Eller are a Pet Partners pet therapy team that comforts children who may be called to testify in court.
Only 20% of domestic violence shelters allow pets
The Purple Leash Project is a Purina initiative run with the nonprofit RedRover. It gives grants to domestic violence shelters and social service providers for pet-friendly renovations, on-site and off-site pet housing, essential pet supplies and veterinary care.
The need is large: according to the source, 48% of survivors delay leaving an abusive situation because they cannot take their pets along. Purina CEO Nina Leigh Krueger said survivor safety "shouldn't require sacrifice."
Purina has funded nearly 70 grants worth more than $2.2 million
Those grants span more than 30 states. Purina's stated goal is to help provide 1 million safe nights for survivors and their pets by the end of 2030.
Audi Field added a pet-friendly seating area for the match
Purina created the Purina Club, a temporary seating area where fans could bring their dogs to cheer on the USWNT.
Earlier this year, Purina launched its national "For the Team Behind the Team" campaign with U.S. Men's National Team player Weston McKennie. It also introduced what it describes as the first national pet jersey for soccer fans and their pets. Purina also partnered with KC2026 on pet-centered programming at the FIFA Fan Festival Kansas City, including Dog Days, pet kits and adoption-focused community programming.
Hargitay said she is honored to continue her work with Purina on a stage like this to help break down the stigma survivors face and to call for more safe, pet-friendly spaces.