October is Domestic Violence Awareness month

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October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, a time we honor survivors and remember victims of domestic violence. During the pre COVID-19 years, Refuge House would host community events to bring awareness to domestic violence. This year will be a little different. During the month of October watch for articles in the Monticello News/Jefferson Journal. We will be discussing several different topics on domestic violence.
With COVID-19 and social distancing, limitations of outside contact, loss of income and working from home, anxieties will be heightened, anger will rise, and this will leave many vulnerable to abusers.
Refuge House provides direct services to domestic abuse survivors, guidance and encouragement for families and friends worried about a daughter, sister, child or parent and community education in 8 of the Big Bend counties (Leon, Jefferson, Madison, Taylor, Wakulla, Franklin, Liberty and Gadsden) We are a State Certified Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Center.
Some victims many not recognize their experience as a crime. At times, not all protections are enforced. And, some victims may face difficulty when trying to access services due to lack of resources. There are women and children in our community--who often need help and protection but may never receive it. It is important that we take the time to raise awareness of domestic violence and encourage the victims to come forward.
Services provided in Jefferson County include: (all services are free and confidential)
EMERGENCY SHELTER
COUNSELING PROGRAMS
(1-850-342-3518)
COURTHOUSE PROGRAM
HOTLINE PROGRAM
(1-800-500-1119)
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES (AN INTENSIVE 30 HOUR TRAINING PROGRAM)
I encourage all community members to get involved in helping victims of domestic violence. IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.
For more information or to refer someone who is being abused, locally contact Nan Baughman, Co-Located DV and Child Welfare Advocate for Jefferson County (850)342-3518 or you may call the 24 Hour Crisis Hotline-(850)681-2111 or (800)500-1119.