Domestic Violence comes in many ways.
When we think of Domestic Violence, we typically think of a man beating his wife, or child. NOT TRUE! Domestic Violence comes in many forms. Whether it's from your partner, friend, child, parent or anyone causing you abuse or harm, it is not right. You are the victim and you have rights.
I know you heard the abuser say, "I’m sorry", "I love you", and "I promise, it will never happen again." You have to ask yourself how many times have you heard those same lines. Or you may say, "They only get like that when they drink or if they are mad." No excuse can help the frightening feelings you are going through.
There are many people just like you, that have called and made a change in their life for the better. And it is sad to say, there are also many like you that are no longer with us because their abuser didn’t mean to, they were just drinking, or mad.
Or you may feel like you did something wrong. Someone can try to justify abusive actions all they want, but there is no excuse or justification for abuse. You are not at fault and you do not deserve to be abused in any way. You can not predict someone else’s mind, or what they are going to do. You cannot fix them or make them better, you can only protect yourself and preserve your life and dignity.
We understand how you feel right now. We want to assure you, we are here to assist you in many ways. Please do not live in fear. There is help. We can help you build an escape plan from an ongoing abusive relationship.
Anytime anyone is in harms way we can be there to assist. We offer first response. Please get help now, call 211. When we receive a call for help, we make sure you are safe while we are in route. A call is placed to the Seattle Police Department's, Domestic Violence Unit.
They will arrive on the scene and make an assessment, at the same time, we are there offering comfort, while assisting you to safety. If needed you will be transported to the hospital, and we will be at your side. You do not have to go alone.
Once released, we will provide shelter, food, and the necessary care, until we are able to make the necessary arrangements with NW Network for survivors of abuse.
We will then provide you with initial Counseling, through Seattle Counseling Service or KCSARC depending upon the severity of the assault. We will then assist you in securing an ongoing counseling program.
Please remember you do not have to be alone, we are all here to help.
Cppyright © 2006-2008 The STHN Group
Last modified: June 29, 2007