April is National Abuse Prevention Month. I applaud this observation, because I believe the need for more awareness concerning abuse is crucial to the survival of millions of women and children and yes, sometimes men. With greater understanding, we can combat the abhorrent phenomenon of abuse with the strength that comes from numbers.
I’ve written a number of columns about the topic of abuse. Five of them are linked below. Today, it’s not my intent to discuss abuse in all its manifestations—emotional, verbal, sexual, and physical.
Instead, I’d like to celebrate the efforts of the YWCA for its ever-increasing global success in supporting women and children who’ve been victimized by abuse and domestic violence. (See ywca.org.)
Their formal mission statement is eloquent: “The YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.” This women’s organization carries out its purpose with awe-inspiring efficacy.
The YWCA of Greater Cincinnati is a leading force in nurturing women and their children in critical times of need, and promoting women’s advancement, despite adversity. It houses the only Battered Women’s Shelter in Hamilton County, and offers:
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Shelters for up to 55 women and children. -
Case management, advocacy, and referral. -
Services for immigrant women. -
An Employment Resource Program -
A Children’s Program.
It also provides a 24-hour crisis hotline, including TTY (a text telephone device for the deaf) and an International Language Line. Their local number is (513)-872-9259. Toll free, it's (888) 872-9259.
Here’s a relevant PSA for the YWCA powerful “Own It” campaign:
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