National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

(Jefferson County) The month of October is recognized as National Domestic Violence Awareness month.

It’s estimated that 1 in every 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience some form of domestic violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime.

Also, statistics say 1 in 15 children are exposed to domestic violence each year.

Barb Tenholder is the Director of COMTREA’s A Safe Place. She says A Safe Place is Jefferson County’s only shelter for women and children escaping domestic violence situations.

In September, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reported one of its busiest months this year responding to domestic violence calls.

Tenholder adds the COVID-19 pandemic has only made things worse.

There is good news with COMTREA’s Mary House of Hope at A Safe Place. The first transitional housing unit is expected to open this month.

The transitional housing unit will help create more room at A Safe Place.

Tenholder says A Safe Place has to turn away 1,000 individuals each year because there isn’t enough room at the shelter.

However, the individuals are still provided with some services and resources over the phone.