Date:               October 1, 2006

Contact:          Valerie Colvin

Phone:             (301) 997-1301 ext. 104

 

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

 

            St. Mary’s County, Maryland –  October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time when people are encouraged to recognize the seriousness and pervasiveness of this issue and celebrate those who have survived domestic violence and made a difference by reaching out to help victims. 

            Domestic violence is a problem that is not confined to any particular group of people.  It can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic status or religion.  A surprisingly high number of people are affected by this tragedy as well.  Nearly 5.3 million women are abused each year in this country, and on average, three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends every day, according to the American Institute on Domestic Violence.  Unfortunately, the majority of domestic violence incidents are not reported to authorities. 

            In St. Mary’s County, incidents of domestic violence have still been on the rise.  Walden/Sierra, a local nonprofit agency that offers domestic violence emergency assistance, has seen an increase in requests for services over the past several years.  Walden offers emergency assistance for victims of domestic violence, including shelter and transportation. 

            Following an immediate crisis, victims are in need of further support, including assistance dealing with the situation emotionally, as well as assistance in creating a thorough plan encompassing all of their needs.  Many victims are afraid to contact authorities, and they often need help knowing who to call and where to go.  Walden counselors provide an array of services to meet the individual needs of each victim and help them navigate the system.   

            For more information about local domestic violence assistance, call Walden’s 24-hour hotline at 301-863-6661. 

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