The Franklin Reporter & Advocate Eight Villages, One Community
By Jane Sherry
Did you know that one in three adolescents fall victim to dating abuse, which can include violent and verbal abuse, sexual assault and rape? Safe+Sound Somerset is proud to announce that our 24-hour Hotline now includes texting capability – (866) 685-1122. More than 42,000 victims of domestic abuse are living in Somerset County. Our 24 hour Hotline is there when they need help. Anyone, including family members, neighbors and colleagues can reach out to Safe+Sound Somerset for guidance about helping someone they know.
Additionally, we are launching an outreach campaign announcing our new “texting hotline” and speaking with Somerset County teens about healthy relationships and warning signs that a relationship may become dangerous.
Without help, teens in abusive relationships may be at an increased risk for alcohol and drug abuse, suicide, homicide, failing grades and depression.
Safe+Sound Somerset’s mission is to empower survivors of domestic abuse and engage the community to break the cycle of violence. Our new logo – a soaring kite in bright blue and orange represents the journey of survivors, who face overwhelming obstacles as they pursue a life free of abuse.
Safe+Sound Somerset is also reaching out to the hearing impaired community to raise awareness about domestic abuse. “Individuals who are hearing impaired are five times more likely to be abused by an intimate partner,” according to Christine Morrell our Executive Director.
Recently, a satellite office was opened in Somerville near the county courthouse for the clients who need to address legal issues but may not have transportation to our Outreach Office in Hillsborough.
One of Safe+Sound Somerset’s goals is to empower survivors during their journey to freedom and provide the tools for them to rebuild their lives.
All services are free (and multilingual) regardless of income including an emergency safe house, transitional housing , individual and group counseling services, legal advocacy, financial empowerment programs and healing therapies for children who have witnessed abuse as a way of life and are available.
I encourage you to take a look at our updated website www.safe-sound.org you will learn to recognize and understand the cycle of abuse and the availability of life-changing support and information for victims- they are not alone and they are never to blame.
A helping hand can be reached anytime by phoning or texting at (866) 685-1122 or www.safe-sound.org.
Jane Sherry is the Community Relations Chairperson for Safe+Sound Somerset.
