From the Yakima Herald-Republic Online News.

Posted on Monday, October 19, 2009

Yakima gathering illuminates problem of domestic violence
By PHIL FEROLITO
Yakima Herald-Republic

 

YAKIMA, Wash. -- About 30 people held lit candles at the corner of Ninth and Yakima avenues in an effort to bring awareness to a problem present nearly everywhere: domestic violence.

The crowed listened as a victim of domestic violence told how she eventually escaped an abusive relationship.

Held in conjunction with the YWCA's National Week Without Violence, the event is intended to let victims know about local services and the importance to report such abuse, said YWCA director of development LeAnn Leahy.

"It's just something that the community needs to be aware of," she said. "It's something that children need to be aware of, that we want a life without violence, and that one person can't make a change. It takes several people to make a change."

Last year alone, more than 430 cases involving domestic violence were heard in Yakima County District Court, according to court records. And that doesn't include Superior Court, where felony cases, such as assault, are handled.

Last year, the YWCA provided services to more than 5,200 domestic violence victims and housed about 116 women and 150 children.

"They're in our community, so the more awareness we can create, the more connections we can make in the community," said YWCA executive director Erin Black.

YWCA offers a shelter to victims of domestic violence who have no place to go.

The organization is nearing completion of a 15-room, 45-bed shelter, the largest in the state, and is preparing to erect 16 transitional apartments where victims can live for up to two years, she said.

Staff will also be provided to assist victims with tapping local services and educational programs to help them get back on their feet, she said.

"We want people to be aware of the services we offer," she said.

 

Domestic violence

* If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.

* For other information, call the YWCA's Yakima 24-hour Hotline at 509-248-7796.

* Or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.

 

* Phil Ferolito can be reached at 509-577-7749 or pferolito@yakimaherald.com.

 
Rosalie Baker holds a candle during a candlelight vigil held at the YWCA in support of the victims of domestic violence and to raise awareness of the issue. Baker, who is a victim of domestic violence, says she hopes women who are in abusive relationships will, like her, get help.
SARA GETTYS/Yakima Herald-Republic
Rosalie Baker holds a candle during a candlelight vigil held at the YWCA in support of the victims of domestic violence and to raise awareness of the issue. Baker, who is a victim of domestic violence, says she hopes women who are in abusive relationships will, like her, get help. "Just get help," she says. "Don't wait. I know that's scary. You feel like there's nobody out there, but there is."