This October marks the 25th anniversary of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It evolved as a Day of Unity in October 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. In October 1981, the first Domestic Violence Awareness was observed. The observance was designed to connect battered women, children and families with advocates and services to aid in puting an end to domestic violence.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month but a crisis happens in most cases every other minute. What is domestic violence? A pattern of abusive behaviors used by one individual over the other to have power and control over them. These behaviors leave the victim afraid and fearing for their life. This power and control by the abuser happens in intimate and family relationships.
The YWCA of Richmond, VA
Since 1887 — that’s how long the YWCA of Richmond has been helping women and children in our community. We are a safe haven for those escaping from violence and provide a head start for children’s education. We recognize the profound impact of women in our community with our annual Outstanding Women Awards. Plus, we do it all with a mission of caring for those most in need and providing equal opportunities for women, children and families of all ages, races, and income levels.
Domestic Violence Statistics:
- During the 2008 fiscal year, the YWCA of Richmond provided 9,502 nights of shelter to 225 women and children.
- Each year 1.5 million women are raped or physically assaulted by an intimate partner. (U.S. Department of Justice, 2000)
- In 2004, about 1 in 250 households included a member victimized by an intimate partner, such as a spouse, ex-spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend. (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2004)
- Intimate partner violence results in nearly 2 million injuries and 1,300 deaths nationwide every year. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2003)
- 50 to 70 percent of men who abuse women also abuse children. (National Coalition of Domestic Violence, 1999)
- Children exposed to domestic violence at home have a significant risk of ever-increasing harm to their physical, emotional and social development and they tend not to do as well in school. (UNICEF and The Body Shop, 2006)
What services does the YWCA provide to domestic violence victims? How do I recognize domestic violence? What should I do during an attack? What is a safety plan? Get your questions answered on domestic violence and support here www.ywcarichmond.org
If you are in crisis call the 24-hour crisis hotline at (804) 643-0888.
Women and children are not the only ones being victimized by domestic violence. Men are subjected to domestic violence as well. Get the story at www.emievil.hubpages.com/hub/Domestic-ViolenceAgainst-Men
