Sixth-annual Peace from DV Walk raises money for survivors of domestic violence
After a one-year hiatus due to the global pandemic, the Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA (DVSSP) will hold its 6th-annual Peace from DV walk Sept. 25 at the Church of the Covenant in Washington, Pa.
The event begins at 11 a.m. and the walk starts at noon. A $25 registration fee includes a walk t-shirt and goody bag.
“We are so glad to bring this event back after we had to cancel it last year due to the pandemic,” said Lisa G. Hannum, DVSSP CEO, in a news release. “We invite everyone to join us and your neighbors, friends, and family members as we walk together to raise awareness of domestic violence and kick-off Domestic Violence Awareness Month.”
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), one in four women and one in nine men are victims of physical violence at the hands of a partner in their lifetimes. The pandemic led to increased incidents of domestic violence nationwide.
“Domestic violence was an epidemic before COVID-19,” said Leslie Orbin, DVSSP communications specialist. “”We’ve seen an increase not only around the world, but in southwestern Pennsylvania. It just really underscores the need for our services in the community.”
DVSSP offers assistance to those in life-threatening situations, but Orbin said the organization also offers services to people experiencing other types of abuse, like mental, verbal and emotional abuse.
“Our counseling and support services are there for folks if they want to remain at home,” Orbin said.
In addition to the walk, Orbin said there will be raffles, live music, food trucks and a play area for children.
All proceeds from the Peace from DV walk benefit survivors of domestic violence in Washington, Greene and Fayette counties.
For more information, or to register, visit peacefromdv.org/peacefromdvwalk.