YWCA Domestic Violence Awareness Month

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four women, and one in seven men, will experience physical violence by an intimate partner. While Domestic violence happens year-round, October serves as a reminder that help is available and survivors of domestic violence are not alone.

“In the wake of this pandemic, as we see both the rate and intensity of domestic violence-related incidents increase, we are reaffirmed in how our services are essential in our community,” stated YWCA Executive Director, Deborah Hall. “DVAM allows us to shine a light on this growing issue, take stock in the needs of those we serve, and continue to do the work.”

Throughout the month, YWCA is set to host a variety of in-person and virtual events centered around educating the community, supporting survivors, and honoring those lost to domestic violence. The schedule of events are as follows:

• Ribbons of Hope: October 1 – 31, YWCA Salem Square Facility
• Empty Place at the Table: October 4- November 1, YWCA Salem Square Facility
• Gardner Candlelight Vigil: October 4, Gardner City Hall
• Worcester Candlelight Vigil: October 5, Worcester City Hall
• Art as Healing: October 14, Creative Hub Worcester
• Week Without Violence: October 18-23, Virtual
• Leominster Silent Walk: October 19, Leominster Police Department
• Trauma-Informed Yoga: October 22, YWCA Salem Square Facility
• Daybreak Breakfast: October 25, YWCA Salem Square Facility
• Bystander Intervention Workshop: October 27, Zoom

For an in-depth description of each event, registration information, and to learn more about ways to support YWCA’s Domestic Violence Services, please visit ywcacm.org/dvam.