National Domestic Violence Awareness Month -- Time to Raise Awareness and Show Care

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an annual designation observed throughout the month of October.

For many, home is a place of warmth, love and comfort; a place filled with care and support.

However, the U.S. Department of Justice estimates that 1.3 million women and 835,000 men fall victim of domestic violence by a partner every year.

This year alone there has been an increase in domestic violence cases worldwide, associated with many quarantining at home with their family members to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. The pandemic has also created uncertainty in our daily lives, increased stress and led to a disconnect from social support system. These factors can put individuals at greater risk for violence at the hands of their partners.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, please call police. If you feel you are in imminent danger, please call 911, or text to 911 if calling is unsafe.

Lastly, these are unprecedented times for everyone, which makes it so much more important for us to come together and support each. Please focus on spreading love and uplifting each other so we can all get through these challenging times.