Every Minute Counts
Every Minute Counts: Taking Action Against Domestic Violence
In our community and across the nation, someone experiences domestic violence every 24 seconds. This October, during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Lafayette House joins communities nationwide in shining a light on this critical issue that affects not just individuals, but entire families and communities.
The Reality of Domestic Violence
The statistics paint a sobering picture of domestic violence in our society. One in three women and one in four men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. Even more alarming, one in fifteen children witness domestic violence each year, creating generational impacts that ripple through our communities.
Recognizing the Signs
Abuse often starts in small ways that might be hard to notice at first, before getting worse over time. While some people think of domestic violence as physical harm that leaves visible marks, it actually takes many different forms. Sometimes it shows up as one person trying to control what their partner does each day, who they see, or how they spend money. An abusive partner might constantly criticize, threaten, or make their partner doubt their own judgment. They might track their partner's location or demand passwords to their phone and social media accounts. Money is another way some people control their partners, perhaps by keeping them from working or taking away access to bank accounts. What makes this especially difficult is that many people who hurt their partners act very differently in public than they do at home. They might seem friendly and charming to others while treating their partner poorly in private. Because these behaviors can seem normal at first, or because someone might feel ashamed, they might not realize they're experiencing abuse or feel able to talk about it.
Creating Safety Through Support
At Lafayette House, we understand that safety planning is crucial for protecting individuals and their loved ones. Our trained advocates work with survivors to develop comprehensive safety strategies that consider every aspect of their situation. This includes identifying safe spaces, establishing escape routes, securing important documents, and planning for children and pets.
Our services extend beyond immediate safety to include:
24/7 crisis intervention
Emergency shelter services
Legal advocacy
Individual counseling
Support groups
Transportation assistance
Food service
The Journey to Healing
Each person's path to safety and healing looks different. Some might need emergency shelter for a few nights, while others may stay with us longer as they rebuild their lives. At Lafayette House, we understand this journey takes time, courage, and support. Our counselors and advocates walk alongside survivors every step of the way, offering both emotional support and practical help. We've seen countless individuals find their strength, rebuild their confidence, and create new lives free from violence.
Taking Action Together
The work of ending domestic violence belongs to all of us. Each time someone speaks up against abusive behavior, supports a friend in need, or helps spread awareness, they contribute to making our community safer.
This October, join us in taking meaningful action against domestic violence:
Replace your porch light with a purple bulb to show solidarity with survivors and raise awareness in our community.
Our 24/7 hotline (417-782-1772) is available to anyone needing support or information. Sometimes, simply knowing where to turn can make all the difference.
Support Our Mission and consider volunteering, making a donation, or supporting our Second Chances Thrift Store, where 100% of proceeds help fund our services.
Contact Information:
Crisis Line: 1 (800) 416-1772
Main Office: 1 (417) 782-1772
Main Office Address: 1809 S Connor Ave. Joplin, Missouri 64804
Neosho Office: 417-451-6106
Neosho Office: 118 W. Spring St., Neosho, MO, 64850
Website: https://lafayettehouse.org/
Together, we can create a community where everyone feels safe, supported, and empowered to live free from violence.
