Officials and Advocates Hold Ceremony in Montgomery County in Honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

By Sheryl Rentz on October 11, 2012

First observed in October of 1987, October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which was created to raise awareness of the “silent epidemic” of domestic violence and promote prevention of this significant national problem. Nationally, domestic violence affects one in four women, and an estimated 91,000 Pennsylvanians were affected by domestic violence in 2011.

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, victim’s advocates, law enforcement, and court officials gathered recently in Montgomery County to support survivors and honor those who have shared the expertise to help victims.

The Domestic Violence Legal Network (DVLN) of Montgomery County was formed in 1986 by professionals from law enforcement as well as the judiciary and victims’ services agencies for the purpose of sharing expertise and resources to serve victims more effectively. The chairman for the DVLN told the crowd who attended the annual awareness ceremony that because domestic violence is a major problem, “we must continue to raise awareness of the issue and resources available to assist victims.” In addition, a DVLN board member said the annual ceremony provides an important opportunity to show support for victims of domestic violence in the community.

For those individuals in the Philadelphia area who are in a violent situation, please call the domestic violence hotline for help and assistance at (866) 723-3014. Residents of Montgomery County can call (800) 773-2424 to reach the toll-free hotline of the Women’s Center of Montgomery County for support and aid. Resources are available to help domestic violence victims and their children get to safety and end the dangerous cycle of domestic violence. More information can be found by visiting the website of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Montgomery County domestic violence attorney Sheryl R. Rentz understands how dangerous a domestic violence situation is and how difficult it may be for a victim to find the resources and assistance they need to leave, but there is help. To file a domestic abuse charge or file a restraining order against your abuser, please call (866) 290-9292 to discuss your particular needs and circumstances during a free, confidential consultation. Ms. Rentz will provide the legal assistance you need to flee an unsafe or life-threatening situation in order to protect you from further harm.