[Archived] City to Raise Awareness About Domestic Violence in October

For Immediate Release                                                                             For more information, Contact
October 1, 2018                                                                                           Debra Evans, Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Division Chief 
                                                                                                                       703.746.3122

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The City of Alexandria Domestic Violence Program (DVP), along with the Domestic Violence Intervention Project (DVIP), is reminding the community about the importance of stopping domestic violence and highlighting available resources.

Throughout the month, DVP and DVIP will raise awareness about domestic violence through special activities and domestic violence resources.

Some of the Domestic Violence Awareness Month activities include:

• Resource booths at Alexandria Farmer's Markets
• Civic Association Presentations
• Clothesline Project Exhibition at City Hall
• Providing resources at City dog parks with the Animal Welfare League and Police K-9 Unit

Domestic violence is an instance or pattern of abusive behaviors that may include threats, harassment, controlling resources, verbal and emotional abuse, sexual abuse, physical assault, or other actions. These behaviors are exhibited by one individual to exert power or control over another in the context of family, or in dating relationships (including those of teen couples and adult couples who do not live together).

One in four women in the U.S. experience violence by a partner at some point in her life. To find out if you or someone you know might be a victim, a quick online assessment is available.

DVP operates a 24/7 hotline at 703.746.4911. Among the services offered are a Safe House shelter; counseling; confidential support groups; and legal help, including court accompaniment and assistance with protective orders. DVIP addresses arrest, prosecution, victim advocacy, treatment, education, and training in Alexandria.

For more information and resources about domestic violence, visit alexandriava.gov/DomesticViolence.

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