Family Crisis Services to Shed Light on Domestic Violence During October

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Family Crisis Services wants Oxford to go purple.

Family Crisis Services wants to challenge the community of Oxford to stand up against domestic violence to show that domestic violence is not acceptable.

According to the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men have been victims of violence by an intimate partner. According to the most recent statistics, more than 15,000,000 children witness domestic violence each year.

“These statistics are frightening, but by talking about it and taking part you are giving a voice to someone who is suffering in silence and to honor the victims that are no longer here,” said Mary-Margaret Chaffe, advocate/program assistant.

Family Crisis Services, a comprehensive victim services organization providing advocacy services to survivors of sexual assault, child abuse, homicide, domestic violence, and family violence, will have awareness signs displayed around Oxford throughout the entire month.

“When you see these, we hope Oxford will take notice and will be part of the movement to end this violence,” Chaffe said.

The Oxford Police Department, Lafayette County Sheriff’s Department, University Police Department and the Oxford Fire Department have pledged to participate with the awareness campaign by placing awareness magnets on their vehicles.

Anyone can help take part in getting the message out by wearing purple – hats, clothes, jewelry, anything purple, painting a Halloween pumpkin purple, or participating in events throughout the month.

Suthern Oasis Salon and Spa will also be supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month by having creative ways you can display your purple with all proceeds will go to Family Crisis Services.

Another way Family Crisis Services is wanting to get businesses and individuals involved is by donating $30 to for a purple ribbon door hanger.

“If someone asks you about your purple let them know you are standing up against domestic violence and that ‘Love Shouldn’t Hurt,’” Chaffe said.

FCS is also working on organizing a silent walk in honor of domestic violence victims and survivors.

October is also Family Violence Prevention Month and as always Family Crisis Services along with many other agencies will be set up on the Courthouse Lawn on Oct. 31 for its Halloween Spooktacular Safe Stop. Lots of fun games and plenty of candy for the kids while being in a safe environment.

For more information, call Family Crisis Services at 662-234-9929.

Hottytoddy.com staff report