VICTORVILLE – Walking and messages of hope – Family Assistance Program is hosting its annual Walk to End Domestic Violence, Wednesday, to support domestic violence victims.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), held every October, brings recognition to victims of domestic violence, aims to hold abusers accountable, and educates people in the community on how to identify abuse, formulate safety plans, and lead others to support resources.

“The purpose of DVAM is to mourn those lost to abuse, celebrate survivors, and network for change,” said Family Assistance Program Case Manager Sylvia Romo. “By taking a stand we intend to remind the nation that there are still countless people – victims and survivors, their children and families, their friends and family, their communities – impacted by domestic violence.”

The two-mile walk will start at 10 a.m. at 15075 7th Street in Victorville. Walkers wear purple in support of the cause. Food, water and snacks will be provided.

After the walk, survivors and families will speak about their situation at the main station.  Information on programs to help leave an abusive relationship, a restraining order advocate and case managers will also be there to provide support. 

Since 1985, Family Assistance Program, formally known as High Desert Domestic Violence Program, has provided shelter and advocacy services to domestic violence victims.

Since that time, the agency has grown to include a larger shelter, a transitional housing program, a separate outreach office, satellite offices in the cities of San Bernardino and Fontana, two runaway youth shelters, a homeless youth street outreach team, youth drop-in centers, Next Step re-entry program, community centers, anti-human trafficking program, and other programs and services to support the needs of the Victor Valley, San Bernardino, and Morongo Basin communities.

The walk not only brings awareness to domestic violence victims, but also words of encouragement.

“There will be a Hope Tree where walkers will write a message of hope, empowerment, strength, courage in a purple heart and place it on the tree,” said Romo. “We laugh, we cry and support each other.”

For more information on Family Assistance Program visit www.FamilyAssist.org

 

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