Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia raises awareness for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

VP of Operations at Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia, Dawn Burns, says that Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time to advocate for survivors.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia is advocating for survivors during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

VP of Operations at Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia, Dawn Burns, says that Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time to advocate for survivors. Burns says this month is also a time to spread awareness about domestic violence for the purpose of breaking the stigma and bringing domestic violence into the conversation so that people speak up and speak out, encouraging survivors to seek help.

VP of Programs at Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia, Jason Beck, says the Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia has events planned throughout the month to highlight domestic violence in the Middle Georgia area.

Beck also offered statistics about domestic violence:

• Over their lifetime, 1 in 5 and 1 in 7 men experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner.
• Georgia is ranked 17^th in the nation for the rate at which women are killed by men.
• Domestic violence is the 3^rd leading cause of homelessness among families.
• 90% of witnesses to domestic violence are children.

The Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia has several events and activities planned throughout the month of October to highlight domestic violence in the Middle Georgia area.

• October 19: Purple pinwheels will be placed at the Shoppes at River Crossing, which represents a person who died during a domestic violence incident in the state of Georgia. Purple pinwheels will be placed for those who lost their lives in Georgia because of domestic violence. There will be a table set up with information.
• October 29: A candlelight vigil will be held in conjunction with Crisis Line and Safe House of Central Georgia at 6 P.M. at Washington Park. The event will feature a survivor testimonial and candlelight vigil to honor those harmed or murdered due to domestic violence.
• The Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia Thrift stores, the Bargain Center at 3375 Napier Avenue, and Barn Center at 6601 Zebulon Road on the Rescue Mission campus will be offering special savings during the month of October to bring awareness to domestic violence.