October is nationally recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In observance of that, Steps to HOPE, Polk County’s domestic violence and sexual assault prevention and treatment center, wishes to raise awareness about domestic violence and efforts to provide support to victims through safe shelter, education, and prevention programs in our community.

 

In a proclamation signed by the Polk County Board of Commissioners at Monday’s meeting, October 2015 was proclaimed as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Polk County. The proclamation calls upon all Polk County citizens, medical facilities, community agencies, businesses, elected leaders, and faith groups to increase their participation in efforts to support families and to work together to eliminate domestic violence from our community.

 

A mobile art exhibit entitled “Behind Closed Doors” will be on display at a different location in the county each week during the month of October, beginning with the Polk County Courthouse Oct. 5 – 9. Other locations will be announced.

 

A drive to provide non-perishable food items for the shelter at Steps to HOPE will be ongoing during the month of October. Carigan Carson, senior at Polk County High School, will be placing collection bins at area businesses.

 

Want to get involved during October and beyond? Here are a few simple ways you can:

1)   Wear purple – the color of Domestic Violence Awareness month – to show your support and to tell others that ending domestic violence is important to you.

2)   Make a tax-deductible cash donation to Steps to HOPE

3)   Make a tax-deductible donation of clothing, household items, furniture to Second Chance Thrift Store – call to arrange pick up at 828-894-2373

4)   Shop ‘til you drop at Second Chance Thrift Store

5)   Sign up to volunteer by calling 828-894-2340

6)   Follow Steps to HOPE on Facebook

 

– Submitted by Paula Childers