Pennsylvania agencies promote awareness and support resources during Domestic Violence Awareness Month

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) and the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV) organized an event during Domestic Violence Awareness Month to highlight resources and warning signs related to domestic violence. The event brought together local domestic violence programs and law enforcement officials to focus on prevention, recognition, and response efforts.

Delia Sanchez, a survivor of domestic violence and Legal Advocate/Paralegal at Domestic Violence Services of Lancaster County, shared her experience: "At some points, I wanted to give up, but then I remembered that inner spirit that I had that needed to break the cycle of abuse. We have to respect survivors where they're at and know that it's their story to share. I use my awakening moment to better understand where others are and to help advocate for the resources, respect, and understanding every survivor deserves. It's important that survivors have the information necessary for them to make informed decisions on how to get out safely."

Kathy Buckley, Director of Victims' Services for PCCD, emphasized the importance of community collaboration: "During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, it's critical that we lift the voices of those impacted, educate communities, strengthen collaboration across state and local partners, like those here with us today, working to save lives. Through initiatives like the LAP and VCAP, we're better identifying and responding to high-risk situations, connecting survivors with immediate safety and support, and providing the financial resources survivors need to begin rebuilding their lives. By working together, we can ensure that every survivor knows they are not alone and that help, hope, and healing are within reach during each step of their journey."

Other speakers included Jennifer Beittel from PCADV; Christine Gilfillan from Domestic Violence Services of Lancaster County; Stephanie Spurgeon from Domestic Violence Services of Cumberland & Perry Counties; Jason Yerg from Hampden Township Police Department; and Dr. Jenna Mehnert Baker from PCADV.

The event highlighted programs such as the Lethality Assessment Program (LAP), which helps identify high-risk situations in domestic violence cases, as well as PCCD's Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP), which provides financial assistance for survivors.