DO YOU KNOW THEM?

They are one of the 4 million American women and men abused every year by their spouses or partners. They wears bruises in the form of a handprint, because the person who once promised to love, honor, and cherish them forever now grabs them in fits of rage. Their once bright future has become a living nightmare, and their hope has turned to despair. They could be your friend or relative, or even you. One out of every four persons in American will experience abuse at the hands of their partners, so chances are you know someone just like this.

Domestic violence occurs among all ages, economic levels, and races. Iit is the single greatest cause of injury to women in America. It can range from threats and intimidation to death. In the U.S., four persons die each day as a result of this violence.

Safe Space Inc. had more than 5714 contacts in 2011 consisting of 691 new clients contacts and 5023 repeat contacts with clients.  Safe Space helped 87 women and children find refuge at our local shelter.

WHY DO THEY STAY?

• FEAR: Threatened to kill them if they leave, or to take the children.

• Shame, embarrassment, and low self-esteem are overwhelming.

• Limited resources, such as money, transportation, and employment.

• Affordable housing is difficult to find.

• Traditional beliefs about family and divorce, or religious convictions.

WHY DOES HE/SHE ABUSE?

To gain power and control over their partner, and because they get away with it. In many cases, a lack of response from friends, family, and society simply reinforces the abuse.

CAN THE PERPETRATOR CHANGE?

Many people want to stay in their relationships. They just want the abuse to stop. Remember the abuse is not the victim's fault. Their partner makes the choice to use emotional and/or physical violence. Programs are available for perpetrators of violence in relationships. Though Safe Space supports these programs, success does not occur overnight. The abusive partner must want to change and must work hard at changing, usually over a long period of time. Research shows that accountability, including arrest, protective orders, jail time, and clear messages against the violence from relatives, friends, and community leaders may deter the abusive partner from using violence. Contact Safe Space for referrals to local perpetrator programs.

DISCLAIMER:  NO PHOTOGRAPHS ON THIS WEB SITE ARE OF ANY ACTUAL VICTIMS.