Metropolis…. State Rep. Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis) is reminding constituents that October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The month-long information and awareness campaign is a movement first began in 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
“During this national month dedicated to domestic violence awareness, I want the people of the 118th district and all of Southern Illinois to be aware that there are domestic violence services available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year available through the State of Illinois and key partners throughout Southern Illinois,” said Windhorst. “I am urging that if you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence or abuse, please know that free and confidential help is available. It is imperative to take action by calling the State’s domestic violence hotline, the Southern Illinois Women’s Center, or Guardian Family Services of Metropolis.”
The State of Illinois currently operates a domestic violence hotline through the Illinois Department of Human Services. The hotline is toll free, confidential, and multi-lingual and open 24 hours a day. The State of Illinois domestic violence hotline number is 877-863-6338.
The State of Illinois also collaborates with domestic violence agencies to provide key services that include counseling, legal advocacy, children’s services, temporary food and housing, domestic violence education, emergency medical care, transportation, employment assistance, and childcare.
“The services offered through the Department of Human Services and its local partners are free and private, and available regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, income, disability, or sexual orientation,” Windhorst said. “If you or someone you know is the victim of domestic violence or abuse, please know that help is available and take action by calling the State of Illinois’ domestic violence hotline, the Southern Illinois Women’s Center or Guardian Family Services in Metropolis.”
The Southern Illinois Women’s Center provides crisis services for victims of domestic violence and their children. There are three locations serving Southern Illinois: Carbondale, Harrisburg, and Marion.
The Southern Illinois Women’s Center also operates a 24-hour hotline that can be reached at 1-800-334-2094.
Guardian Family Services of Metropolis and Cairo Women’s Shelter also offer shelter and walk-in services to victims of domestic violence and their children. Guardian serves residents of Massac, Pulaski, Alexander, Union, Hardin & Pope Counties. Guardian Family Services 24-hour hotline can be reached at 618-524-4357.
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