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The Mission of Our Lady of Mercy Church Domestic Violence Outreach is threefold.
- First, to raise awareness of domestic violence throughout our parish.
- Second, to connect the victim and/or abuser to services, such as counseling and shelter
- Third, to advocate for the prevention of domestic violence. Girls and boys, young women and young men must learn to recognize the elements of unhealthy and healthy relationships. This is accomplished through education at home, in the parish, and in schools.
Did you know that abuse can take many forms?- Emotional treatment
- Verbal
- Isolation
- Financial
- Sexual assault
- Digital abuse
- Threats
- Physical Force or injury
Danger Signs:- Has your partner ever threatened to harm you, himself/herself, children, relatives, and/or family pets?
- Has your partner attempted to strangle you?
- Has your partner abused you during pregnancy?
- Has your partner stalked you?
Before a domestic violence crisis occurs, make a safety plan:
Stash some cash, spare keys, prescriptions
Apparel for you and your children
Financial records, bank books, important papers
Escape plan (police, friends, motel, shelter)
Telephone numbers for help
You deserve to be safe!
Click here for a downloadable Safety Plan Checklist!HELPFUL NUMBERS
APP (Abused Persons Program)
Domestic Violence
240-777-4195 (day) 240-777-4673 (HOPE) 24/7 crisis line
APS (Adult Protective Services)
Elder Abuse
240-777-3000
CPS (Child Protective Services)
Child Abuse
240-777-4417
Crisis Center (Montgomery County, 24/7
240-777-4000
FJC (Family Justice Center)
240-773-0444
Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Abuse (JCADA)
1-877-885-2232
Teen Resources:
AWARE: Adolescents Working for Awesome Relationship Experiences
www.awarenow.org
National Dating Abuse Helpline
1-866-331-9474 (24 hr)
Love is Respect
www.loveisrespect.org
Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence
Referral Hotline: Monday-Friday, 9 am - 5 pm
1-800-MD HELPS (1-800-634-3577)
Suggested Reading:"When I call for Help" (Statement of the US Catholic Bishops)