This year is the 17th year that C.A.R.E. of Atchison County Inc. has advocated for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in the Atchison County community. C.A.R.E. would like to thank all those in the community who helped spread awareness of domestic violence, donated to the shelter, and participated in the different activities throughout the year. With the support from the community, C.A.R.E is able to offer three-night emergency shelter, community education, personal advocacy, court advocacy, victim compensation information, emotional support, information and referral, and a 24-hour hotline to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

During the past year, Missouri has made great strides in securing rights, protections and services for victims of domestic violence. Lawmakers and domestic violence advocates have worked tirelessly to criminalize domestic violence and marital rape, establish Orders of Protection with criminal penalties for violations, obtain funding for domestic violence services, ensure confidentiality for the safety and dignity of victims, strengthen Child Welfare Laws to protect battered mothers and their children, and enhance penalties for offenders to match the seriousness of the crime.

Yet many domestic violence victims have not experienced the promise of such progress. We know that despite these advancements, each year, more than 50 percent of domestic violence incidents are never reported to the police according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Some victims may not recognize their experience as a crime. At times, not all protections are enforced. And, some victims may face difficulty when trying to access services – last year, 28,000 Missouri women and children were unable to find shelter at a domestic violence program due to lack of resources according to the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.

“Behind these numbers are victims – men, women and children in our communities – who often need help and protection that they never receive,” Teresa Morehouse said. “It is vital that we take the time to raise awareness of domestic violence and the need for additional resources to ensure help is available to all who need it.”

In 2017, C.A.R.E. provided 2,873 services and 251 hours of professional counseling to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in the Atchison County community. It is C.A.R.E.’s mission to continue to spread awareness and to reach those in the community who can utilize their services.

Community members are encouraged to contact C.A.R.E if they are interested in volunteering. For additional information on domestic violence, C.A.R.E. services, or volunteering opportunities, please contact C.A.R.E. of Atchison County, Inc. at 660-744-9966.