October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Every October, communities across the country come together for Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) —a time to raise awareness, honor survivors, and strengthen the movement to end abuse. At NewStory Center, this month is especially meaningful. Every day, we witness both the devastating impacts of domestic violence and the incredible resilience of survivors who are building safer futures for themselves and their families.

Domestic violence is more common than many realize. Nationally, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe physical violence, sexual violence, or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Behind every statistic is a real person—someone’s neighbor, coworker, friend, or family member. Abuse can take many forms, including emotional manipulation, financial control, and isolation, in addition to physical violence.

NewStory Center’s mission is to provide safety, support, and hope. Our services include a 24/7 crisis hotline, emergency shelter, advocacy, and prevention education in schools and throughout the community. These services are free and confidential, because everyone deserves access to safety and support.

Throughout October, we invite the community to stand with survivors:

• Learn about the signs of abuse and how to support someone who may be experiencing it.

• Share information and resources to break the silence and stigma surrounding domestic violence.

• Engage with NewStory Center by attending events, wearing purple, or starting conversations in your workplace, school, or faith community.

• Support our work through volunteering, donations, or simply by spreading the word that help is available.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month reminds us that while abuse thrives in silence, healing and safety grow when we speak up, reach out, and stand together. At NewStory Center, we believe in the strength of survivors and in the power of community to create change.

📱 Resources to Share

• Hotline: 802‑775‑3232(available 24/7)

• Our website offers toolkits for survivors and allies at: nscvt.org/domestic-violence

• Share our educational posts via Facebook and Instagram.

Join us this DVAM as a local partner, speaker, or advocate. Learn more at nscvt.org/how-you-can-help.