While many think of October as warm fuzzy blankets and rainy weather, others know it as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This month, we celebrate those who survived domestic violence, applaud those who advocate for awareness and support those who are in need of help.
Family Violence Prevention Services
San Antonio is home to many different shelters for domestic violence victims and Family Violence Prevention Services (FVPS) is one of the choice shelters. Their mission includes breaking the cycle of domestic violence by providing the necessary resources to victims like shelter and protection. According to their website, “FVPS offers residential and non-residential clients shelter, transitional housing, counseling for adults, children, families, and legal services.” Additionally, FVPS offers a 24/7 crisis hotline that can be reached at (210) 733-8810. Located at 7911 Broadway.
Empower House
If you are looking for more casual aid, Empower House is a place of transformative health. Through programs like community health, which increases access to essential health care services and Empower House Youth. Empower House Youth provides care for youngsters, helping them achieve their goals and create opportunities. With a mission geared toward female solidarity, Empower House is a place for women to feel safe and seen while receiving the transformative care that they are seeking. Located at 801 N. Olive and 200 Donaldson.
P.E.A.C.E. Initiative
Serving as a nonprofit organization, the P.E.A.C.E. Initiative aims to educate and inform the community about the very real impacts of domestic violence. By offering education, training and advocacy work, the organization is able to provide the community with the resources needed to protect themselves against violence. What separates the P.E.A.C.E. Initiative from the other listed prevention services is its specialty in advocacy. When needed, the organization is not afraid to step up and challenge law enforcement; this is always done with the mindset of “helping the little guy.” Located at 1443 S. St. Mary’s St.
Domestic violence is a real threat and it is important to be educated in the matter. Knowing when to step in and advocate for someone is knowledge everyone should have and these organizations can help provide that knowledge. If you or someone you know is involved in a domestic violence situation, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.
