October 2024
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time when communities nationwide come together to raise awareness, support survivors, and take action to end domestic violence. This issue affects people all over the world, and it is our collective responsibility to address it.
Domestic violence often hides behind closed doors, making it difficult for survivors to seek help and for others to recognize the signs of abuse. By raising awareness, we can break the silence and create a community where survivors feel safe to come forward to seek support. At Crime Victim Services, our mission is to provide safety, healing, and justice to survivors. But we can’t do it alone. We need your help to ensure that no one in our community suffers in silence.
“Survivors of domestic violence are some of the strongest people you will meet. Our job as advocates and community members is to remind them that they are not alone, and help is always available”, says Sarah Woods, Relationship Violence Survivor Advocate.
Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation or background. It often starts subtly and escalates over time. Recognizing the signs is the first step in helping someone who may be in danger:
Physical abuse: unexplained injuries, frequent “accidents”, or a partner who exhibits extreme jealousy or control over the survivor’s movements
Emotional abuse: constant criticism, humiliation, or isolation from family and friends
Psychological abuse: threats, manipulation, gaslighting, where the abuser makes the survivor question their own reality
Sexual abuse: forced sexual activity or coercion into unwanted sexual activity
Financial abuse: controlling finances, restricting access to money, or preventing the survivor from working or retaining their own savings
If you notice any of these signs in someone you know, it is essential to reach out and offer support. Crime Victim Services provides a range of services to support survivors, including shelter placement, counseling, legal advocacy, and much more. We encourage our community members to pay attention to the signs of domestic violence and offer support to their friends and loved ones who may be experiencing it.
In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness month, Crime Victim Services will be hosting an art contest for local high school students in Putnam County entitled “The Art of Love: Healthy Relationships in Focus.” Artwork from these young artists will be displayed at the Leipsic Community Center from October 10th to November 1st. We invite community members to visit the display and vote for their favorite piece of art. The winner of the contest will be announced on November 1st and will receive a $100 scholarship to buy art supplies.
This October, let’s stand together to support survivors, hold abusers accountable, and work towards a future free from violence. Every action you take can make a difference.
Thank you for your continued support of Crime Victim Services. Together, we can make a difference. For more information on recognizing the signs of domestic violence, resources, and how to get involved, call us at 419-523-1111.
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