DASI vigil marks Domestic Violence month

NEWTON — In the wake of numerous NJ domestic violence related murders, suicides, and the involvement of public figures, domestic violence awareness is more important than ever.
Domestic violence is a pervasive, complex public health issue that requires an equally pervasive and multi-layered response, and its biggest ally is silence. In an effort to break that silence, Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault Intervention Services presents a candlelight vigil during October, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, to raise awareness of the issue and to highlight the help that is available for its victims.
DASI will hold their annual Candlelight Vigil at 6 p.m. Oct. 26, at the SCCC Student Theater Building D, The vigil serves as a time of peaceful reflection and remembrance to honor those who have lost their lives to domestic violence, offer hope to those still facing abuse and to continue to support survivors. A courageous survivor will be presented with the 2016 Full Circle Award, honoring her journey from victim to survivor and thriver who is now giving back by helping others. There will be time for survivors in attendance to briefly share personal experiences if they wish, as well as guest speakers from the community.
For more than 30v years, DASI has been the state-designated lead agency providing comprehensive services for victims of domestic and sexual violence, including an emergency safe house in a confidential location.
DASI staff assist with physical, emotional and psychological injuries, and help with safety planning, housing and financial emergencies. Services include a 24-hour Helpline, counseling, support groups, advocacy, court preparation and accompaniment, children's services, transportation, transitional housing apartments, food and clothing, all of which are available to help individuals and families to heal and rebuild their lives.
The DECIDE Program was established in 1987 for men who decide they want to learn to live without the use of violence or abuse in their lives.
DASI also provides community education and prevention programs, trains and supervises the county’s Domestic Violence Response Teams (DVRTs) and participates in the Sussex County Sexual Assault Response Team (SART).