Submitted by Teresa Morehouse, Victim Advocate

March indeed came in like a lion! First snow after snow, then the devastation of the unapparelled flooding that is affecting so many in Atchison County. C.A.R.E. would like to thank everyone who has been working so diligently to ensure the safety of those affected. If C.A.R.E. can be of service, please call Nikki or Teresa at 660-744-9966.

C.A.R.E. would also like to give a big thank you to Kelcie Gaines and Beth Davis with the Rock Port FBLA for providing a free will donation evening of babysitting to parents on Valentine’s Day and for organizing an exciting tournament of dodgeball with all proceeds from both events going to The C.A.R.E. House to purchase new outdoor furniture for our screened in back porch. C.A.R.E. would also like to thank all the organizations who have asked us to come and speak giving us the opportunity to expand on the multiple support services available such as: 24/7 crisis hotline, crisis intervention, case management, emotional support, emergency medical and legal advocacy, information and referrals, professional counseling, and emergency (three night) shelter to victims of domestic violence or sexual assault in Atchison County.

C.A.R.E. relies heavily on organizations and community involvement when it comes to donations. Many people have made wonderful donations such as: monetary donations, gift cards, new blankets, new underclothing, laundry soap, dryer sheets, personal hygiene items, shampoos, cream rinse, paper towels, toilet paper, canned goods and cleaning products. Without the community’s good will and support C.A.R.E. would not be possible.

C.A.R.E. needs volunteers who know the importance of confidentiality and who have a desire to assist those dealing with domestic violence or sexual assault. Volunteers will go through an in-depth training on how to communicate with people in crisis, with a strong emphasis on strict confidentiality requirements as well as other topics. Volunteers are needed to cover the shelter when the advocates are away at trainings and to cover the hotline on weekends, holidays, and at other time as needed. If interested, please call Nikki or Teresa at 660-744-9966.

Did you know that every 17 seconds a violent crime is committed? Every nine seconds a woman is assaulted or beaten in the United States. One in six boys are sexually abused before age of 16. Eighteen- to 23-year-old women who were victims of sexual assault knew the person who sexually assaulted them. Studies prove five out of six people will become a victim of a violent crime at least once in their life.