October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
In an effort to reach victims and inform folks of the issue, an organization called Scrap DV is launching a new campaign.
I had the group's executive director on Face the State to talk about fighting the issue.
She said many times when we think of domestic violence, women come to mind. She said men and children are being emotionally and physically abused as well.
"It affects one in four women and one in seven men in their lifetime. Even though you may not think you know somebody that's been affected by domestic violence, you have," said JoAnn Casalez. "It could be somebody who is a co-worker, somebody you go to church with, your child's friend, their parents, you just never know."
Casalez said their goal is to make sure every member of our community knows where they can go and who they can call.
She said saying no more to domestic violence requires people to know more and talk about it.
She also said domestic violence perpetuates, meaning kids see it in the home and then they grow up and do the same.
If you are in a bad situation, Casalez said you need to have a plan.
"When they leave, it's important they have the documents they need, especially if they are going to take their children with them. They need Social Security cards, they need birth certificates, they need an escape plan."
If you are someone looking for help go to www.ScrapDV.org
To watch the entire interview, tune into Face the State Saturday at 4:30am or 4:30pm. It also airs on Sunday at 6:30am.
Written by Chris Ciarlo
