This month, we are wearing our purple ribbons to promote Domestic Violence Awareness Month. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, every minute, approximately 20 people are physically abused by an intimate partner. One in 3 women and 1 in 4 men is a victim of some form of physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. This means that someone close to you, if not yourself, is a victim of domestic violence.
Domestic violence can exist in the form of physical, emotional, spiritual, financial, and verbal abuse. It can occur in any relationship, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or marital status. Not only does it affect the victims, but 1 in 15 children are witnesses to domestic violence as well. We at the YWCA of the Sauk Valley are here to assist all victims.
Awareness and action create social change. There is so much silence surrounding this epidemic and you can help by spreading the word. Be a support to someone in a violent situation. Tell your story. Refer a friend to get help.
The YWCA has a 24-hour hotline available to all of Lee and Whiteside counties at 815-626-7277. Additional services offered are emergency shelter for those needing immediate refuge from domestic violence, legal advocacy, children’s services, support groups, and many more.
Domestic violence is never the fault of a victim and everyone has the right to be safe. Please contact the YWCA if you are in need of assistance. The YWCA of the Sauk Valley is a United Way agency of Lee and Whiteside counties.