DELAWARE WATER GAP, MONROE COUNTY — October is recognized nationwide as domestic violence awareness month, a time to shed light on resources and stand with those affected.
Someone is always there to answer the call at Safe Monroe in Delaware Water Gap.
The non-profit, formerly known as the Women’s Resources of Monroe County, is the domestic and sexual abuse center for the entire county.
“We provided services to over 980 adults and children dealing with domestic abuse,” said Lauren Peterson, Executive Director, of Safe Monroe.
Those statistics from 2023 show an increase seen across the nation.
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“One in three women and one in six men are abused every single year in the United States. No one is immune, it can happen to anyone, anywhere,” said Peterson.
That’s why during October, observed as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the center hosts a candlelight vigil and showcases its ‘empty Place at the Table’ display.
“Adults, children, these were family members. They were a part of that dinner table scene that we would have, but they are no longer physically able to come to the table so we want to hold space for those people who were lost due to abuse,” said Peterson.
Representing its hard work here in Monroe County, the ‘Silent Witness Project’ showcases three very real cases of individuals suffering from domestic abuse.
Spreading the message that abuse comes in all forms. Peterson wants the public to work toward ending the stigma and know that this is a reality.
“This is something that people are living, this isn’t just a story, this isn’t something that you’re reading in the news, these are lives. These are people who are impacted and they’re right here,” said Peterson.
Safe Monroe’s candlelight vigil will take place at Courthouse Square in Stroudsburg on October 17, for more information on its resources head to Https://www.Safemonroe.Org/how-we-can-help/ or call 570-421-4200 at 24-hour crisis hotline.
