October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on the often-hidden issue of domestic violence and supporting those affected. Established in 1987, this month-long observance serves to unite individuals and organizations in efforts to raise awareness, promote advocacy, and provide resources to survivors.

Domestic Violence is a topic which causes us to have heavy hearts, but not without hope. We come together to remember the lives lost to domestic violence, to raise awareness about the pervasive nature of domestic abuse, and to stand in solidarity with the survivors who carry the weight of their experiences. Domestic violence is often a silent epidemic, hidden behind closed doors and whispered about in secret. But today, we bring it to light. We refuse to let those who have suffered be forgotten.

Domestic violence is not limited to physical abuse. It encompasses various forms, including emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual abuse. Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical violence, eroding a person’s self-worth and confidence. Psychological abuse involves manipulation, threats, or isolation, while financial abuse occurs when an abuser controls or restricts a victim’s access to financial resources. Sexual abuse within domestic violence includes any unwanted or coerced sexual contact.

For those experiencing domestic violence, protecting yourself can start with creating a safety plan. This may involve identifying safe places to go in an emergency, keeping important documents and emergency contacts accessible, and confiding in trusted friends or family members. Local domestic violence agencies can offer support, including shelter, legal advocacy, and counseling.

Family Crisis Council of Rowan exists for the very reason that domestic violence is not something any person should face alone. We provide a range of critical services to support individuals affected by this violence:

• Emergency shelter for those in immediate danger, offering them a safe haven from harm.

• Legal Advocacy, including assisting survivors with filing 50B orders of protection, ensuring they have the legal tools to protect themselves.

• Court advocacy to help survivors navigate the often, overwhelming court processes.

• Our Special Victims Program, dedicated to providing specialized support for the most vulnerable victims, including children and those experiencing sexual violence or human trafficking.

• Hospital accompaniment for victims of sexual assault, ensuring they are not alone during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

• Case management to help individuals rebuild their lives, find stability, and move forward with dignity.

• And finally, counseling services to help survivors heal emotionally and psychologically from the trauma they have endured.

These services are lifesaving, but they are only part of the solution. It takes an entire community – each and every one of you – to help survivors feel supported, safe, and empowered. By standing together, we make it clear that domestic violence will not be tolerated here. One by one, we can strive to prevent the cycle of abuse from continuing and try to ensure that no more lives are lost to this violence.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a reminder to stand with survivors, spread awareness, and break the silence surrounding abuse. We all have a role to play in creating safer communities and offering hope to those in need.

Together, we can do this.

We will advocate, educate and empower.

Together, we will make a difference.

We are Family Crisis Council of Rowan.