Standing together against domestic violence

When we speak out and stand together, we make room for healing and change

Catholic Charities’ ministry of care is evident in so many ways and services including: food pantries and soup kitchens, domestic violence shelters, mediation sessions, mentoring, caring for those with disabilities, advocating for services, supportive housing, and walking with young women who are pregnant.

In 1988, I was serving on staff in a domestic violence shelter in Troy, then part of Catholic Charities, and we got a call that a father had shot and killed a mother, a resident in the shelter, on the streets of New York City after a court hearing. We had to tell the children that their mother was not coming back. That day has left an indelible mark on me.

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) — a time to educate, support survivors and promote prevention. First recognized by Congress in 1989, DVAM reminds us that domestic violence can happen anywhere, but so can healing and hope. The color purple, symbolizing peace and courage, unites us in standing with survivors. The issues of power and control and the dynamics of these as lived out in relationships are at the crux of domestic violence.

At Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany, we are deeply committed to walking alongside those affected by domestic and intimate partner violence. Across four of our agencies, we offer confidential, compassionate support — including shelters, counseling, advocacy and emergency aid.

In Herkimer County, our Domestic Violence Program has served survivors for 40 years, providing crisis intervention, legal advocacy, counseling and emergency shelter. A Supervised Visitation Center also ensures safe, positive visits between children and non-custodial parents.

24-hour Hotline: (315) 866-0458

In Warren and Washington Counties, our Domestic Violence Project offers a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, counseling, advocacy and support groups, along with community education and outreach.

Hotline: (518) 793-9496

In Montgomery County, our Domestic Violence and Crime Victims Services program provides crisis intervention, safety planning, counseling, and court advocacy for all victims of crime and abuse.

Hotline: (518) 842-3384

And in Schoharie County, our program offers residential and non-residential services, including emergency financial assistance, safe housing referrals and essential supplies to help survivors rebuild their lives.

Hotline: (518) 234-2231

Domestic violence thrives in silence — but when we speak out and stand together, we make room for healing and change. This October, I invite everyone to join us in supporting survivors. Together, through compassion and community, we can help end domestic violence. Since my earliest days, the statistics on the average number of times a woman leaves a violent situation before she is safe have not changed — seven times. I hope and pray that little by little we continue to celebrate safety, encourage positive and meaningful uses of power and control and walk with those who take the first step.

Sister Betsy Van Deusen is the chief executive officer for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany.