Category: DVAM

Reflecting on a Powerful Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Post author By Rebecca Councill
Post date November 11, 2024
No Comments on Reflecting on a Powerful Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Reflecting on a Powerful Domestic Violence Awareness Month

As October comes to an end, the pressing issue of gender-based violence, particularly domestic violence, remains at the forefront of our mission. Throughout Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), the Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council (HCDVCC), alongside our incredible community partners, dedicated time to amplifying the conversation around recognizing, responding to, and making referrals for domestic violence.

Throughout the month, the HCDVCC team had the privilege of supporting our partners at various events, including The Bridge, Fresh Spirit, Aid to Victims of Dometic Abuse (AVDA), and An Nisa Hope Center, who graciously invited us to participate in their galas and luncheons.

The Communications Department was busy during October appearing on KPRC, FOX 26 and KHOU discussing important issues about Domestic Violence. Thank you to all the stations for making domestic violence a feature during October. HCDVCC also participated in a panel discussion with AVDA, The Bridge, the District Attorney’s Office and the Houston Police Department at the United Way’s Interagency Meeting discussing issues and resources related to domestic violence for their Community Partners.

We partnered with AVDA and Daya to host an Interfaith Community Dialogue on Domestic Violence. Advocates were joined by Faith Leaders for table talk discussions on Domestic Violence. After the Dialogue, we held an evening of Remembrance, Caring and Hope to celebrate survivors and honor those we lost to domestic violence in the last year. We were honored to have several families who lost a loved one join us for this moving event.

On October 9th, our Senior Director of Operations and Communications, Amy Smith, had the unique opportunity to meet with ten members of the Korean National Police Agency and provide training on the dynamics of domestic violence, Coordinated Community Responses (CCR), Risk Assessments, and Safety Planning. During their three-week visit to Houston, hosted by Sam Houston State University’s College of Criminal Justice, the group also met with representatives from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Houston Police Department, and other local agencies to compare international approaches to protecting vulnerable populations.

Thecia Jenkins, our Training and Outreach Director, participated in an event that was hosted in collaboration with State Representative Jolanda Jones and AVDA. This impactful session focused on identifying lethality risks in domestic violence situations and preventing abuse by promoting healthy relationships. Attendees were able to access real-time resources and connect with one another, sharing personal stories and finding support.

Our Voices of Freedom ambassadors—a remarkable group of survivors who have thrived and now lead as advocates—spearheaded a four-part social media series on Facebook. These posts addressed critical topics such as dismantling domestic violence myths, the journey from victimization to advocacy, engaging men in the conversation, faith-based responses to abuse, and the importance of self-care for both survivors and advocates.

Our Education and Outreach team was quite active this month partnering with local colleges and universities to lead discussions on healthy relationships. They reached over 700 youth and young adults, sparking conversations on domestic violence prevention.

The Team hosted a Family Fun Day in partnership with Village Green. This was one of the highlights of the month—a fun-filled day emphasizing the importance of community connections. This event also served as a precursor to next year’s Youth Boot Camp on Healthy Relationships.

The Team also hosted two outreach workshops one on Creating a Culture of Care: How healthy relationships and bystander intervention can make a difference. The participants learned essential skills to foster healthy relationships and intervene in potentially harmful situations. The second workshop was an Accountability Walk or Taking Responsibility for Our Actions and Ending Violence. This powerful, interactive activity allowed participants to step into the shoes of domestic violence offenders, raising awareness of the challenges they face on the road to rehabilitation.

This October also saw HCDVCC’s Client Support Groups engage in a creative and therapeutic project, where participants—mothers and children—used art to envision their personal, professional, and psychological futures.

We were honored to be in the company of amazing people and agencies when HCDVCC received one of Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg’s Community Partner Awards.

While October has come to an end, our work is far from over. As we move toward the end of this year and into 2025, let’s continue to have these crucial conversations and advocate for those affected by domestic violence. Together, we can keep making a difference.

Tags community, domestic violence, dv nonprofit, harris county nonprofits, nonprofits, sexualviolence, trauma informed

Community DVAM Sexual Assault

Domestic Violence Awareness Month – A Time for Action and Reflection

Post author By Rebecca Councill
Post date September 30, 2024

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a time to focus on one of the most pervasive issues facing communities across the globe. While domestic violence occurs year-round, this month offers an opportunity for concentrated efforts to raise awareness, honor victims, and mobilize communities toward change. Domestic violence affects individuals regardless of gender, sexuality, race, or socioeconomic status, and understanding its impact—especially within local contexts like Harris County—reveals the urgency for both preventive measures and survivor support.

Why Domestic Violence Awareness Month Matters

DVAM began as a way to shed light on the struggles of survivors and create a platform for discussing solutions. Domestic violence is not just physical; it encompasses emotional, psychological, and financial abuse. The month aims to create a dialogue where survivors feel supported, and the broader community is educated on identifying abuse and providing help.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime. While these statistics are alarming on a national scale, they take on a more poignant meaning when viewed locally. In Harris County, the rise in intimate partner violence homicides and shelter requests underscores the critical nature of this issue.

Domestic Violence in Harris County: A Stark Reality

The Houston area has seen a concerning rise in domestic violence, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. A University of Houston study revealed that intimate partner homicides in the region doubled over a three-year period, with 64 deaths in 2022 compared to 32 in 2019. The pandemic further exacerbated the crisis, with victims finding it harder to seek shelter or leave abusive situations due to lockdowns and fear of contracting COVID-19.

Shelters in Harris County are also under tremendous strain. Despite a growing need, the county only has 330 shelter beds for survivors, while a city like New York, which has twice the population, offers over 3,500 beds. The lack of sufficient housing is a critical barrier to leaving abusive relationships. In 2022, more than 1,300 households in Harris County requested housing due to domestic violence, showing the demand far outstrips the available resources.

Moreover, the demographics of intimate partner violence in the county reveal disparities. While women are the majority of victims, Black women represent 52% of female intimate partner homicides, though they account for only 20% of the female population. These figures show a troubling overrepresentation of violence against Black women, which requires specific community engagement and tailored solutions.

Raising Awareness and Mobilizing Support

DVAM is more than just a time to raise awareness; it’s a call to action. Local organizations, including the Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council (HCDVCC), work tirelessly year-round to support survivors and prevent violence, but they need community engagement to effect lasting change. HCDVCC leads efforts such as increasing access to shelter, housing, and comprehensive survivor services, but like many organizations, they remain underfunded. The University of Houston’s report recommended a $1 million per year investment in domestic violence services over five years to address these gaps.

One of the key messages during DVAM is the importance of understanding the signs of abuse. Domestic violence often starts subtly, with emotional manipulation or financial control, before escalating into physical violence. Recognizing these signs early can prevent abuse from worsening. Community members can play a vital role as active bystanders—offering support to those in need and providing resources like hotline numbers or shelter information.

The Ripple Effect of Domestic Violence

The impact of domestic violence extends beyond the immediate victim. Children exposed to domestic violence are more likely to experience emotional trauma, which can have long-term psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and even perpetuating the cycle of abuse as adults. Economic abuse is also prevalent, with many victims trapped in financially dependent relationships that make leaving even more challenging.

These ripple effects mean that domestic violence is not just a personal issue—it’s a public health crisis. Supporting victims through affordable housing, legal advocacy, and mental health services is critical. Harris County’s public health initiatives, in collaboration with local agencies, aim to address these intersections of violence and public health by promoting equity and providing resources to underserved populations.

How You Can Help

Domestic Violence Awareness Month offers numerous opportunities to get involved and support survivors. Here are some ways you can make a difference:

Educate Yourself: Understanding the signs of domestic violence and how to provide support is the first step. Attend local workshops or virtual training sessions on recognizing abuse.
Volunteer or Donate: Local shelters and organizations often rely on donations and volunteer work. Whether it’s your time or financial contributions, every bit helps.
Speak Up: If you suspect someone is experiencing domestic violence, reach out to them in a non-judgmental way. Let them know they are not alone and provide them with resources such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE).
Advocate for Policy Change: Local and national policies play a significant role in how survivors are supported and how perpetrators are held accountable. Advocacy at the local level can lead to better funding for shelters and legal services.

Moving Beyond Awareness

As we recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month, it’s important to remember that this issue doesn’t go away when October ends. For many survivors, every day is a fight for safety and healing. Community members, local organizations, and policymakers must continue working toward solutions that address the root causes of domestic violence and provide the necessary support systems for survivors.

The path forward involves acknowledging the complex nature of domestic violence—addressing not only the physical harm but also the emotional, financial, and psychological abuse that often go unnoticed. Together, we can create a safer community where everyone has access to healthy, violence-free relationships.

By promoting awareness, offering support, and fostering community-wide engagement, Domestic Violence Awareness Month can be a catalyst for change. However, the work must continue year-round to ensure that survivors receive the support they need, and future violence is prevented.

Tags domestic violence, domestic violence awareness month, dv nonprofit, dvam, harris county nonprofits, nonprofits, recognize the signs, trauma informed

Crime Victims DVAM

Crime Victims Rights Week 2024

Post author By Amy
Post date April 22, 2024

April may bring spring showers, but it also brings Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, Child Abuse Prevention Month and Crime Victims’ Rights Week. While much will be written and many events will be planned about Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness through out this month, Crime Victim’s Rights Week always seem to get lost in the shuffle. The week of April 21^st – 27^th is a time to highlight and recognize the often-overlooked rights of crime victims. Crime Victims deserve our time and attention for more than just this one week, they deserve it every day of the year. This year’s theme is “Options, Services and Hope for Crime Survivors. How would you help?”

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics in 2022 there were 6.6 million violent victimizations against persons aged 12 or older and 13.4 million property crimes. However, we also know that many survivors do not report or tell anyone what happened to them. The reasons differ from person to person but some think by sharing it will make things worse especially if it is an ongoing issue, some are fearful especially if the perpetrator is someone they know or someone they perceive as powerful, like a boss, religious leader, or an influential person. Survivors can also feel ashamed, feel like it is their fault, fear they will not be taken seriously or fear retaliation. So, the question is how would you help a crime survivor? Would you know what to do?

A few things you can do is Offer Support. Start by listening without judgement and believe them. Just be there for them and show your support by giving them your time and focusing on what they are saying. It is their story to tell, and it is their decision about how much they want to share, it is your responsibility to listen to what they are saying without interrupting, judging, or giving unsolicited advice. Their story is unique to them and can not be compared to yours or anyone else’s. Share Resources- Familiarize yourself with local resources and hotline numbers. Google what they need and share what you find. You do not need to become an expert, there are plenty of those around, but find out what they need and more importantly what they want. Just by helping them locate resources, you can help them take back some of the control they might have lost because of being a crime victim.

Do not ever underestimate the Power of Hope. By listening and offering to help, crime survivors can take the steps toward establishing their new normal. Hope is also essential to mitigating some effects of the trauma associated with being a crime victim. Let us all help a crime victim become a crime survivor.

To learn more about options, services, and hope for crime survivors as well as access material to help spread awareness of victims’ rights and resources this week and every day, visit The 2024 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) Resource Guide .

Tags crime victims rights, crime victims rights week, cvrw, domestic violence, sexualviolence

Community Community Share DVAM

The Afro-American Police Officers League (AAPOL) Honored Houston Police Officer Adrian Rogers with the 2023 Harold L. Preston Patrol Officer of the Year Award!

The AAPOL recognizes exceptional achievement in any police endeavor including, but not limited to displays of extraordinary valor, crime prevention, investigative activity, community outreach, lifesaving, and innovative approaches to police service. On October 28, 2023, at the AAPOL awards gala Houston Police Department’s Eastside Patrol Officer Adrian Rogers was named the recipient of the 2023 Harold L. Preston Patrol Officer of the Year Award.

In June of 2023, Officer Rogers was on routine patrol in Houston’s east end and observed a woman running and when he approached her, she turned around and he observed her crying, and in fear for her life. Officer Rogers discovered that the woman had just been assaulted and shot at twice by her boyfriend attempted to blocked her from exiting the house when she escaped and ran for her life. Officer Rogers was further advised that her boyfriend had a court hearing the next day for Aggravated Assault-Impeding Breath. Officer Rogers was advised by the woman her boyfriend was in a vehicle backing out of the driveway Officer Rogers along with backup officers follow him to a convenience store. Officers had the customers exit the convenience store and set up a perimeter when the male’s friends arrived on the scene threatening the complainant. Officers observed the man pull out his gun and tragically died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Officer Rogers stated, “This scene was a success because of the actions of the complainant (survivor) and the actions of Eastside Station patrol officers, tactical units, and supervisors. Sergeant Garza, Officer Morales and Officer Ramirez put their lives on the line when they walked into the store with the armed suspect. Sergeant Garza displayed active leadership and poise while giving commands while the suspect had a gun in his hand and Officers’ Morales and Ramirez showed their extraordinary experience and valor by communicating to each other in real time their tactical positions. Lieutenant Wilborn was there on the front lines assisting with scene management. Eastside evening shift Officers’ Soto, Centeno, Hernandez, and Pellerin assisted with outside perimeter while certain individuals in the crowd were yelling epithets at the survivor. Night shift officers assisted in taking the complainant back to the original scene while there were several suspicious vehicles circling the target area and there was a real sign of an active threat. Night shift officers like Officer Brink who stayed with the complainant until she was able to be reunited with her grandmother until 4 am in the morning. Other nightshift officers like Kichamu, Martinez and Judge Jones assisted with scene management. Commander Coleman made the Canal Street scene and managed the media. This incident like many other incidents shows Eastside patrol station is a family that is here for its officers and its community and citizens.”

Officer Rogers recently reunited with the woman, and she indicated that if not for Officer Rogers she thinks that this could have been a domestic violence murder-suicide. When the woman stated to Officer Rogers that he is her big hero, Officer Rogers stated that she is the hero, she is the person that escaped the situation. Officer Rogers and all the officers who made this scene should be commended for their professionalism, teamwork, and safety techniques.

Responding to domestic violence calls for service is one of the most volatile and dangerous situations for police officers. They lead to about 14 percent of officer deaths every year according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Domestic violence constitutes anywhere from 15 to 50 percent of total calls received by police, according to the National Institute of Justice. Officers are also hurt in domestic violence responses. FBI data show of all officers who were assaulted in 2021, nearly 29 percent were responding to disturbance calls.

Everyone involved in the domestic violence intervention is a hero. The intervention is a partnership among law enforcement, victim advocates, community members and social service providers though which police and prosecutors clearly communicate to abusers that intimate partner violence is violence, and violence won’t be tolerated in our community. Helping survivors and their families and the relentless pursuit to end domestic violence is our community mission.

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About the Author

Kira Webster, Lieutenant at the Houston Police Department

Major Assault & Family Violence Division

Tags AAPOL, awareness month, domestic violence, domestic violence awareness month, family voilence division, harold p preston patrol officer of the year, honored family violence det, houston police department, houston police dept, officer adrian rogers, sexual assault, sexual violence, trauma informed

DVAM

November: A Month of Gratefulness

Post author By Rebecca Councill
Post date November 1, 2023

As the calendar pages turn and we step into the crisp, autumnal embrace of November, we are reminded that this month carries a unique spirit of gratitude. With Thanksgiving just around the corner in many parts of the world, November serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the blessings we have in our lives, especially our cherished loved ones.

In a world often bustling with busyness and distractions, it can be easy to overlook the simple yet profound treasures that fill our hearts. November offers us an opportunity to pause, reflect, and express our gratitude for the people who bring love, warmth, and meaning into our lives.

The Importance of Gratefulness:

Gratefulness is more than just a fleeting feeling or a seasonal sentiment; it’s a powerful practice that can enhance our overall well-being and strengthen our relationships. When we express gratitude, whether through words or actions, we not only acknowledge the goodness in our lives but also foster a deeper sense of connection with the people who matter most to us.

Reminding Others of Gratitude:

While expressing gratitude is a personal experience, November encourages us to share our appreciation openly, particularly with our loved ones. Here are some meaningful ways to remind those we care about how much they mean to us:

Handwritten Letters: A heartfelt letter or note, written by hand, can convey your gratitude in a personal and touching way. Share specific memories or qualities you admire in the person to make your message even more special.
Quality Time: Spend quality time with your loved ones. Whether it’s a leisurely walk in the park, a cozy evening at home, or a long-overdue catch-up over coffee, the gift of your time speaks volumes.
Acts of Kindness: Small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Cook a favorite meal, lend a helping hand, or surprise them with a thoughtful gesture that shows you care.
Verbal Appreciation: Sometimes, a simple “thank you” and “I love you” can brighten someone’s day and remind them of your gratitude. Be sincere and specific in your compliments.
Create Memories: Plan special activities or outings to create new memories together. These shared experiences can deepen your bond and provide more reasons to be thankful.
Gifts from the Heart: Thoughtful gifts, chosen with care and consideration for the recipient’s interests and preferences, can be a tangible expression of your appreciation.
Support and Empathy: Offer your support during challenging times. Let your loved ones know that you are there for them, ready to listen, empathize, and assist in any way you can.

The Ripple Effect of Gratitude:

When we openly express our gratitude to our loved ones, we not only strengthen our relationships with them but also inspire a culture of gratitude in our communities. Acts of kindness and expressions of appreciation have a ripple effect, encouraging others to reflect on their own blessings and share their gratitude as well.

In this November, let us embark on a journey of gratefulness that extends beyond a single day or month. May we remind ourselves and those around us of the immense value of our loved ones and the joy they bring into our lives. As we cultivate a spirit of gratitude, we contribute to a world that is warmer, more connected, and filled with the love and appreciation we all deserve.

Tags awareness month, domestic violence, domestic violence awareness month, dp, dv nonprofit, trauma informed

DVAM

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Post author By Amy
Post date October 30, 2023

Today marks the end of October. A day that is filled with costumes and candy, but it is also the end of a month overflowing with press conferences, trainings, galas, walks, and vigils to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month. One month of recognition among the many months of causes and awareness does not mean the impact of the pandemic of domestic violence is not there the other eleven months. Those of us that work in this field understand that domestic violence is a 24/7/365 problem. While we appreciate the time, attention and funds that are given to DV during October we know that so much more is needed.

We share “our” month with another epidemic, breast cancer. While both are “women’s” issues it seems it is so much easier to support breast cancer because we never hear anyone question what someone did to get breast cancer like we constantly hear the victim blaming about DV- “Why did she stay?” “What did she do?” “I would never allow myself to be in that situation.” We see pink everywhere- on athletes, news anchors, cars, badges, and sidelines yet we rarely see purple.

The numbers keep fluctuating, but there is never a minute, much less an hour or a day that goes by, that there is not some type of domestic violence incident. We keep hearing the numbers are up, the numbers are down but does it really matter? Even one incident is too much. Everyone deserves to live in a home free from not just physical violence but emotional, reproductive, and financial abuse as well. Children deserve to have a safe place to lie down their head at night without waking up to shouts, thumps, and bumps in the night. We need to stop the victim blaming. We need to hold those who cause harm accountable. So many more resources are needed for both the victims and those who cause the harm. Affordable housing, affordable childcare, employment, and a living wage for all.

While the month of October exhausts us with all the events and remembrances just imagine the fear and exhaustion a victim lives with constantly. Let’s be there for them, let’s stop blaming them. A DV survivor is the strongest person I know because they are doing or have done everything than can to survive. So, let’s celebrate their survival and honor those we have lost. Let’s continue to do that 24/7/365 until we can eradicate this horrible pandemic.

Tags awareness month, domestic violence, domestic violence awareness month, dp, dv nonprofit, trauma informed

Community Community Share DVAM

Houston Police Department (HPD) 42nd Annual Hispanic Officer of the Year Awards Reception Honored Family Violence Detective Kassandra Garza for 2023 Non-Uniformed Hispanic Officer of the Year!

Post author By Rebecca Councill
Post date October 12, 2023

The 42nd annual Houston Hispanic Police Officer luncheon recognizes outstanding efforts of HPD officers who go above and beyond their duties. Detective Garza was named the 2023 Non-Uniformed Hispanic Officer of the Year.

Detective Garza displays a high degree of professionalism for victim/survivors to share their experiences of abuse and assault empowering victim/survivors, with hope of enhanced engagement with the criminal justice system and prosecution. Detective Garza maintains engaged compassion while at the same time ensuring respect and impartiality for all participants. Detective Garza completes thorough and complete investigations into the serious crime of domestic violence and ensures warrants are executed due to the high risk of ongoing violence. Detective Garza is a team player within our squad and always willing to assist other detectives. Detective Garza attends trainings related to domestic violence “best practices” and resources available to the community and works cooperatively with the citizens to prevent crime, enforce the law, preserve the peace, and provide a safe environment.

We recently collaborated with Project Beloved to install the soft interview room(s) within our department which allowed for hard conversations related to domestic violence and sexual assault. Project Beloved was founded following the brutal rape and strangulation incident. Working with the Office of Community Affairs Detective Garza assisted with the Spanish video voice over translation with compassion and grace supporting the founder of Project Beloved as she described her experience as a mother of a murder victim in hopes of preventing future murders. Detective Garza is a passionate advocate for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault proudly representing our department and gave a voice of hope and outreach to survivors/victims.

Tragically, Detective Garza’ extended family experienced a domestic violence murder firsthand with a family member who was kidnapped at gunpoint in Pasadena and later found dead of a gunshot wound in Houston, with police naming her ex-boyfriend as a suspect and the trial pending. Detective Garza has displayed personal courage and fortitude to provide comprehensive, collaborative services for everyone affected by domestic violence while passionately working to end this epidemic.

Finally, Detective Garza each day performs her duties in an exemplary manner proudly representing herself with all the many titles she has among them mother, daughter, aunt, friend, and Detective of the Houston Police Department. Detective Garza serves as an inspiration to us all for the dedication to service she displays each day to ensure our community is safe. Detective Garza proudly represents herself as a member of the Hispanic community and in everything she does she is compassionate and attempting to help people. Detective Garza truly represents the positive future our department has due to her dedication and professionalism.

About the Author

Kira Webster, Lieutenant at the Houston Police Department

Major Assault & Family Violence Division

Tags awareness month, det kassandra garza, domestic violence, domestic violence awareness month, family voilence division, honored family violence det, houston police department, houston police dept, sexual assault, sexualviolence, trauma informed

DVAM

Understanding and Creating a Safety Plan: A Guide for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Post author By Rebecca Councill
Post date October 12, 2023

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a crucial time to share knowledge, spread awareness, and provide essential resources to those in need. One such crucial resource is a Safety Plan.

A Safety Plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, planning to leave, or after you leave. Safety planning involves how to cope with emotions, tell friends and family about the abuse, take legal action, and more.

Below is an outline of what a Safety Plan is, how to create one, how to keep it private, and what to do if you need help.
What is a Safety Plan?
A Safety Plan is a comprehensive and detailed plan designed to prioritize your safety and the safety of your children and pets in situations of domestic abuse. It’s crucial for victims of domestic violence, providing them with structured guidance and a set of actionable steps that enhance their security in various situations.

Creating a Safety Plan
While You’re in the Relationship:

Identify Safe Areas in the Home: Know where to go if an argument occurs. Avoid small, enclosed spaces or rooms with weapons.
Develop a Code Word or Signal: Establish a word, phrase, or signal you can use with friends, family, or coworkers to indicate that you are in danger and need help.
Keep Essential Items Accessible: Have important items and documents readily available, so you can leave quickly.

When You’re Preparing to Leave:

Choose the Right Time: Plan to leave at a time when your abuser is least likely to be around.
Pack a Bag: Have a bag packed with necessary items (clothing, medications, etc.) and keep it in a safe, easily accessible place.
Pack important documents- like Driver’s License, Social Security Card (for you and all your children), birth certificates, Passports, Immigration Documents, etc
Secure Funds: Save money or make arrangements for finances.
Know Where to Go: Plan where you will go and how you will get there. Avoid places where the abuser might find you.

After Leaving the Abuser:

Change Locks: If you’re staying in your home, change the locks as soon as possible.
Obtain a Protective Order: If necessary, get a protective order and keep it on you at all times.
Change Routines: Alter your daily routines to avoid encountering the abuser.

Keeping Your Safety Plan Private

Use a Safe Device: When researching or creating your safety plan, use a computer or phone that the abuser does not have access to.
When you get a new cellphone do not download anything from the Cloud. Tracking apps could be in your cloud account.
Protect Your Online Information: Change passwords and enhance online security.
Inform Trusted Friends or Family: Let them know about your safety plan so they can also remain vigilant.

Seeking Help

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help:

National Domestic Violence Hotline (US): Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org.
Local Shelters and Organizations: Find local resources that can provide assistance.
Law Enforcement: In an emergency, call 911 or your local authorities.

Remember, you are not alone, and creating a Safety Plan is a significant step towards ensuring your safety and wellbeing. Utilize the resources available and prioritize your security and peace of mind this Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond. Your life matters, and taking action to protect it is not just your right, but a crucial step towards a future free from abuse.

Tags awareness month, domestic violence, domestic violence awareness month, dp, dv nonprofit, safety plan, trauma informed

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