October Is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Sponsors include Mental Health Hawaii, Catholic Charities of Hawaii, the Domestic Violence Action Center, Parents and Children Together (PACT), and the City and County of Honolulu.

This announcement coincides with National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

One of the goals of Domestic Violence Awareness Month is to highlight these services and agencies.

"Anytime we can apprehend a person accused of domestic violence it provides a level of safety and security to the victim which they don't have when the person has not been caught", said Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker in a statement. On Oct. 26 at 6 p.m. Kilworth Memorial Chapel at the University of Puget Sound will host a night of stories from domestic violence survivors.

"Our advocates will be providing education and information to help our communities overcome the epidemic of domestic violence and become safer for everyone", the release states. "Friends and families, local community members, victims' advocates, law enforcement and prosecutors, we all stand with those who need our help to survive and overcome, to see that offenders are stopped and punished, and to remember and honor those who were lost", said Attorney General Marshall.

According to the Coalition Against Domestic Violence, on average 20 people are abused by an intimate partner every minute in the United States, equating to more than 10 million abuse victims annually.

"It impacts a lot of our homes in Carroll County", she said.

The 5K and vigil presents at least one way to push back against domestic violence, Rainey said, but people should also be aware of the local Domestic Violence Hotline: 443-865-8031.

Heffle says the Situational Awareness training offered at tomorrow's luncheon is part of the Men's Wellness Program, which aims to instill physical, mental emotional and spiritual wellness within families and communities.

Cost: $25 run or walk.

For more information about CEASE Inc., domestic violence, sexual assault, these events and others or to make a donation go to www.ceaseabuse.com or call the office at 423-581-7029 or our 24 hour hotline at 1-800-303-2220.