As a result of the recent horrific tragedies, there has been a significant increase in the discussion of the culture of violence against women.
However, the reality remains that gendered violence happens every day, and while each of these acts of violence may not make the news, no act of violence should ever be trivialized or go unrecognized.
Increased visibility of violence against women can often be triggering for victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual violence; victims of gendered violence may feel empowered to seek help; and survivors of these crimes may experience an elevated need for support.
In recognizing the effects of violence in our own community, we know it is important to increase awareness of the resources that are available to anyone experiencing gender-based violence.
Safe Haven Ministries and the YWCA West Central Michigan are two free and confidential resources available to those in Kent County.
Both agencies provide a 24-hour hotline, supportive services, and emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence. The YWCA also offers a Nurse Examiner Program and additional supportive services for victims of sexual assault.
Finally, if you are interested in continuing a conversation around gender-based violence and how your school, place of worship or place of employment can better support victims/survivors and prevent these crimes from happening, please consider inviting Safe Haven to help facilitate this conversation.
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