Domestic Violence Awareness Month

On behalf of the Safe Children Coalition, we stand with survivors, advocate for victims, and support the organizations and individuals who lead the fight against domestic violence. Children removed from homes due to domestic violence may enter the foster care system and affects the work we do at Safe Children Coalition every day.

Domestic violence occurs in every community and affects all people regardless of their background or identity. According to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced physical abuse by an intimate partner.

In Florida, domestic violence hotlines receive approximately 13 calls every minute, and in 2018, domestic violence accounted for 20% of all violent crimes recorded. Incidents of domestic violence can consist of physical violence, financial abuse, emotional abuse and controlling behavior or threats.

This tragedy affects every person within a home, especially children. At Safe Children Coalition, we serve all youth removed from their homes in Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto Counties, when those homes are determined unsafe. Last year, domestic violence was the second-highest reason that youth in our community entered out-of-home care. Of the children removed for this reason, approximately 51% were children 5 years old or younger.

When exposed, domestic violence has implications that can last a lifetime and even affect future generations. These devastating consequences impact emotional and social well-being, which leads to higher rates of depression and suicidal behavior.

That’s why the Safe Children Coalition offers critical, life-saving programs and services to promote safe, stable, and nurturing homes. We strive to make a difference in the lives of children and families today and for their future. Join us as we stand with the survivors of domestic violence abuse, and as we fight for awareness and prevention of domestic abuse.

If you are in crisis, contact Florida’s toll-free Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-500-1119

Find a local Domestic Violence Center: https://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/domestic-violence/map.shtml

Learn more about Domestic Violence Awareness Month here: https://ncadv.org/2021DVAM