No One Should Live in Fear
by Amanda Mosser, Domestic Violence Center Grants Coordinator Posted on 2/18/2010
Amanda Mosser Domestic Violence Crisis Center Grants Coordinator
For a moment, imagine how it would feel to be afraid to go home? Imagine a child who hides upon hearing footsteps coming towards his room? It's unimaginable for most of us, yet so many adults and children live in fear each day. What is even more unimaginable is that what they fear, is a person who is supposed to love and protect them.
The Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC) began over 30 years ago as a grass roots effort of caring individuals to help protect, support and provide safety to those living in fear and abuse. Since then, DVCC has grown into an agency that provides a full range of services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, and reduces incidents of violence by educating the public about its effects. In 2009, DVCC served 1,519 individuals and the Minot Police Department responded to 665 domestic violence calls.
It is hard for people to understand why someone would stay in an abusive situation; there are so many dynamics, it's impossible to explain here. However, for example, a person will stay because they are ashamed and living in secrecy; or because they have been told by their abuser that if they leave they will be found and hurt worse and so will their children; or they do not have the means to support themselves and their children if they leave; or simply, they do not have any safe place to go where they won't be found.
This is where DVCC comes in. DVCC has an Emergency Shelter (Safehome) in an undisclosed location where victims and their children can stay for up to 30 days while being assisted with information and referrals in order to start a better, violence free life. The Safehome is the only shelter in a 100-mile radius specifically for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Safehome provides food, clothing, emotional support, and safety to victims of abuse. DVCC also offers women's and children's support groups (domestic violence/sexual assault), 24-hour Crisis Call Lines, crisis intervention, Rural Outreach Program, assistance in obtaining Protection Orders, sexual assault advocacy, public education and a Transitional Housing Program (eight apartments).
DVCC is able to provide these services free of charge due to the many grants and donations we receive. Also, DVCC is fortunate to have committed volunteers who are crucial in providing proficient services.
Funds DVCC receives through the Souris Valley United Way (SVUW) are invaluable for DVCC to operate efficiently. They allow us to have the staff necessary to complete our mission. DVCC is so grateful for the generous support of SVUW and our community members. You are helping us keep others safe, because no one should have to live in fear!
To learn more or get help, please call: 852-2258 (Office) or 800-398-1098 (Crisis Line).
