Safe House of Southeast Missouri Raises Awareness for Teen Dating Violence
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo.(KBSI) — 1 in 12 teenagers will experience dating violence, a statistic that highlights the need for awareness for teens dating.
Jessica Hill, executive director of the Safe House of Southeast Missouri, is leading the charge in educating the community about the dangers of teen dating violence. “We want to spread awareness. We want people to be mindful of the young people in their lives, to open up those lines of communication with them, and to support them in their relationships,” Hill said.
February is recognized as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and the Safe House team joined together for Wear Orange Day, the color representing their commitment to the cause.
According to recent data:
1 in 12 teens will experience dating violence.
1 in 5 girls and 1 in 10 boys report being affected by an abusive relationship.
These numbers show the widespread nature of teen dating violence, affecting far too many young people.
Audrey Daniel, a student volunteer and VintageNOW representative, is working to educate her peers on the signs of both healthy and unhealthy relationships.
“I want to support survivors who have gone through dating violence, but also have the opportunity to raise awareness for how to prevent this in the future,” Daniel said.
Daniel and other students are teaming up with the Safe House this month, using their voices to share a important message.
Jessie Green, a case manager at the Safe House, says that victims are not alone.
“There’s help, and there are ways to get out,” Green said. “The first step is realizing there’s a problem and then reaching out.”
Hill says that sentiment, urging parents and community members to recognize the warning signs and offer support.
“We hear too many reports from counselors and teachers about students experiencing unhealthy relationships,” Hill said. “So we want to help prevent those, we want to help intervene, and we want to work side by side with the counseling staff at our local schools to support these students as well as their parents.”
For college students, Daniel hopes to to help anyone connecting them with survivors and resources.
“I hear you, and I believe you,” she said. “A lot of times, because we are young, we may not be as understood. But I want college students to realize that their stories are valid, that we hear them, we see them, and we want to help them.”
The Safe House of Southeast Missouri offers resources for teens, parents, and educators seeking support. Volunteers and staff members are available to guide victims and their families through the process of getting help.
“It just really means a lot to us that we are able to come alongside that person, empower them, and help them be aware of all the resources that are available to them,” a volunteer said.
If you or someone you know is experiencing dating or relationship violence, help is available.
Safe House of Southeast Missouri,
2350 Independence, Cape Girardeau, Mo 63703
Text: (573) 340-1060
Call: (573)335-0402
