United Way - SJ-R weekly column - Angela Bertoni: Sojourn Shelter & Services, Inc., provides a refuge for those abused

Originally published Sunday, October 27, 2013 in the State Journal-Register.  Look for weekly United Way columns in the Our Towns section during the annual campaign.
 
Sojourn Shelter & Services, Inc., provides a refuge for those abused
By Angela Bertoni, Chief Executive Officer at Sojourn Shelter & Services, Inc.

Violence, whether in our schools, places of work or on the streets, usually begins at home. In the United States, a woman is assaulted or beaten every nine seconds, making domestic violence the leading cause of injury to women—more than car accidents, muggings and rapes combined.

During October, we recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month, raising awareness for this serious public health problem that affects millions of people in the United States. Domestic violence has no biases and affects anyone regardless of race, age, gender or economic status. Acts of domestic violence can be physical, emotional, sexual or financial.

Moreover, approximately 75 percent of children of abused mothers are also victims of domestic abuse, making domestic violence the No. 1 risk factor for child abuse.

Sojourn Shelter & Services, Inc. is the only...Read More