We don’t like to talk about domestic violence (DV), we don’t like to think of bruises, broken ribs, or mental torment. But for some in South Hampton Roads, men and women, it’s a reality.

DV involves power and control over one partner in a relationship. It can include coercion & threats, using intimidation, emotional abuse, isolation, minimizing, and blaming among others. It can be emotional, verbal, physical, sexual, psychological, and even include leveraging things like pets or property.

Thankfully, there are agencies like Samaritan House that provide emergency shelter, aftercare programs for children, transitional housing, children’s programs, and a victim advocacy program to help with legal issues.

Did you know that it takes someone 7-12 times to actually leave? For those that are having difficulty, they even offer “safety planning” to help victims get out.

They also offer educational and outreach programs  because “knowing is important.” They offer programs that teach about DV and Homelessness where they try and clarify myths and stereotypes and “Teen Dating Violence and Healthy Relationships”. Everyone should know the warning signs for flags no matter if you are male or female.

In a community as large as South Hampton Roads, it’s chilling to know that 1 in 4 women have been effected in someway by DV. One of the biggest challenges we face is the “Not Me” thinking.

The best part about Samaritan House aside for the services they offer is support, turning the “not me” into “I”m not alone and there is a way out”.

There are many different volunteer opportunities at Samaritan House visit their website to learn more.