YWCA to mark Domestic Violence Month

YWCA of Van Wert County information

As incidents of domestic violence increase from year to year, organizations around the nation increase their efforts to put a stop to the violence. October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The event was first observed in October 1987.  That year also marked the beginning of the first national toll-free hotline.

The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation reported that in 2012 there were an estimated 88 incidents of domestic violence reported in Van Wert County alone. It is believed that this number is lower than the actual number of incidents.  Nationally, it is estimated that 56,000-78,000 women in Ohio will be exposed to a domestic violence event.  Since 1989, Commemorative legislation has passed every year recognizing the intense need for Domestic Violence Awareness around the United States.

The YWCA of Van Wert County has joined the fight against violence and has been providing domestic violence services since March 2013.

Domestic Violence Services offered by the YWCA include: a  24-hour protective shelter, 24-hour crisis hotline, child and court advocacy, case management, support and educational groups, mental health and AOD services on site, referrals to community agencies, safety plans, economic empowerment and employment assistance.

The YWCA staff uses a holistic approach when working with victims and addressing their areas of need.  Assistance and support in understanding the legal system is provided by the YWCA staff, along with referrals and safety plans. The YWCA is dedicated to eradicating domestic violence, and assisting all victims of abuse who contact them.

The goal of the YWCA Domestic Violence Services is to empower victims to reclaim their lives and to become self-sufficient, independent individuals living violence-free lives. For domestic violence services, call the YWCA 24-hour hotline: 567.259.9501. For more information on domestic violence in Ohio, visit www.odvn.org.

The YWCA Domestic Violence Service is an Ohio Attorney General’s Office, Crime Victims Section, United Way and Van Wert County Foundation funded agency.

For more information on services provided by the local YWCA, visit its website at www.ywca.org/vanwertcounty.