October observed as Domestic Violence Month

By Staff
Jonathan Willis FCT Staff Writer
October is often thought of as the month when fall really begins or, to children, its looked at as the month in which they go trick-or-treating at Halloween.
What October means to many others is much different. October is recognized as domestic violence awareness month.
Domestic violence is widely regarded as one of the top fears for many females. In a survey by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 92 percent of the 3,329 women age 18-and-older surveyed, ranked domestic and sexual violence as one of their top concerns.
And rightfully so. In 2003, there were 25 domestic violence homicides reported in Alabama and an additional 201 domestic violence rapes.
Throughout the month, Safeplace will be hosting several events to educate the area about the terrible results of domestic violence.
There will be a Volunteer Drive at Keepers of the Past in Sheffield on Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon. There will also be a Safeplace volunteer orientation at the Florence/Lauderdale Public Library on Oct. 30 from 9 a.m. to noon.
A candlelight vigil will be held at Calvary Baptist Church in Russellville on Oct. 28 at 6 p.m.