A Message from California Secretary of State Debra Bowen
Each October, Safe at Home highlights Domestic Violence Awareness Month - a time to celebrate those who have survived domestic violence, mourn those who have died, and connect everyone who wants to prevent it.
October is also Disability Awareness Month, a reminder that people with disabilities have a statistically higher risk of being victims of domestic violence.
This particular year, Safe at Home is also marking its 10th anniversary of serving California's victims of domestic violence, stalking and sexual assault, as well as reproductive health care staff, volunteers and patients. Since its inception in 1999, Safe at Home has helped more than 4,800 survivors start new lives free from fear. Thirty-three states have confidential address programs. California's Safe at Home - which offers mail forwarding, voter registration, school records suppression and other services - is widely considered to be the national model.
In protecting the identities of Safe at Home participants, the Secretary of State's office works with more than 225 enrolling agencies including district attorneys' offices, health clinics and women's shelters. Currently, approximately 2,400 Californians are enrolled in Safe at Home, 97% of whom are women and children.
Domestic violence is the most common cause of injury to American women between the ages of 15 and 44. It takes many forms, from physical and mental abuse to verbal threats and controlling behavior, and it occurs in every ethnic, racial, national origin, gender, socioeconomic, age, sexual orientation and religious group. Besides the human toll it takes, domestic violence also strains the health and welfare systems, and is a leading contributor to homelessness.
Now, more than ever, is a time to reinforce the commitment to ending violence, and to support important programs like Safe at Home. Whether through government-sponsored prevention efforts or nonprofit agencies working one-on-one, everyone can help bring hope and healing to those affected by violence. You can even help raise awareness by forwarding this e-newsletter to colleagues, friends and family.
With thanks to every advocate and agency committed to violence prevention all year long,
