October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. Harbor House has partnered with numerous other agencies to raise awareness about this epidemic in our community.

Since January 1, 2009 eighteen men, women and children (four under the age of 2) have lost their lives to domestic violence in Orange County. It is the only violent crime in the state of Florida that has shown an increase over last year rising 5 percent (FDLE). Domestic violence is also the leading cause of child maltreatment in our region.

Humans are not the only victims of domestic violence. It is estimated that over 800 animals will suffer this year at the hands of a batterer who also abuses their human family.

48% of victims report that they delay leaving an abusive relationship for fear their pets will be harmed.

80% of women in shelters report having a pet injured or killed by their batterer.

This October, Harbor House of Central Florida has partnered with Florida Hospital, Orange County Animal Services and the American Humane Association to raise awareness about the relationship between animal abuse and domestic violence, said Carol Wick, CEO of Harbor House of Central Florida.

The month will kick off with a proclamation from Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty on October 6, 2009 at 9am at the County Commission Meeting at the County Administration Building.

On October 9, 2009, Harbor House hosts internationally respected author and lecturer and Director of the American Humane Associations The Link program, Phil Arkow, for their 33rd Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Luncheon. A one-hour training session for domestic violence awareness follows and media are invited to attend the training at no cost.

The following day on October 10, 2009, the Domestic Violence Task Force will host an Awareness Walk around Lake Eola at 9am.

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, a community favorite that features men walking in women’s shoes to show support for the eradication of violence against women, will take place at UCF on Oct 22.

For more information about these and other Awareness Events, please visit the Harbor House website at http://www.harborhousefl.com/dvm/oct-main/ . From there you can access the calendar and all event details.

About Harbor House
Harbor House is Orange County's only state-certified domestic violence facility and seeks to eliminate domestic violence in Central Florida by providing safety, shelter, empowerment, education and justice. Harbor House provides safe shelter, a 24-hour crisis hotline, counseling, and emotional support, and legal advocacy for thousands of domestic violence survivors and their children each year. Harbor House also prepares survivors for re-entry into the community - connecting them to resources that will enable them to live independently, safely and peacefully.