ELMIRA, NY – Each October, survivors, advocates, and community supporters
come together to recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month and raise
awareness about the impact of domestic violence.
This fall, Catholic Charities of Chemung and Schuyler Counties is joining the
National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) in a national campaign for
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). The goal of this initiative is to
spark a coordinated national conversation about domestic violence and how we can
all help change the narrative surrounding this often overlooked but critical issue.
Through increased awareness, volunteer engagement, and community support, the
campaign aims to strengthen efforts to prevent domestic violence, support
survivors, and inspire meaningful action nationwide.
Domestic violence is a widespread issue that affects millions of individuals, with
one in four women and one in seven men experiencing it at some point in their
lives. It does not discriminate and can affect anyone, regardless of race, gender
identity, sexual orientation, or financial status. The #Every1KnowsSome1
campaign seeks to show that domestic violence is more common than many realize
and includes emotional, psychological, financial, and other forms of abuse in
addition to physical violence.
Catholic Charities’ First Step Victim Services Program invites local businesses,
organizations, churches, and community members to help “Shine the Light” on
domestic violence by displaying purple ribbons, yard signs, or purple lights
throughout October in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“Shine the Light on Domestic Violence” yard signs are available and can be picked
up from the Catholic Charities offices during regular business hours (Monday –
Friday from 8:30 am – 4:00 pm). Please call (607) 734-9784 to arrange pickup in
Elmira (215 E Church Street) or (607) 535-2050 in Watkins Glen (105 9th Street).
During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Catholic Charities and NNEDV will
use their social media channels to educate the community, increase awareness, and
shed light on the complex realities of domestic violence.
On Thursday, October 22, wear purple to show your support of domestic violence
survivors and your commitment to ending abuse! Take a photo in your purple and
share it on social media with #PurpleThursday #DVAM2026
#Every1KnowsSome1.
This year, two local events will be held that will be a simulation that will be an
opportunity to learn about the circumstances that those who experience domestic
violence have to experience and how one would navigate through challenging
times.
• In Schuyler County, join us on October 20 at the Schuyler County Human
Services Complex (323 Owego Street, Montour Falls) from 10:00 am –
Noon. Pre-registration for this event is required.
• In Chemung County, on October 22 there will be two sessions of the
simulation held at the New Beginnings United Methodist Church in Elmira
(300 E Miller Street) from 10:00 am – Noon and 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm. Pre
registration for both sessions is required.
Attendees are required to register before the event as there are limited spots
available. Registration is available on the Catholic Charities website,
CatholicCharitiesCS.org. The subject matter of this simulation may be
sensitive and graphic in nature. Discretion is advised.
Free and confidential help is available 24/7 for individuals experiencing
domestic violence. Those seeking help may contact the National
Domestic Violence Hotline at TheHotline.org or 1-(800) 799-SAFE (800)
799-7233) or our local First Step Victim Services Hotline at 607-742
9629 (call or text).
For more information on October’s events, contact Megan Gridley,
Marketing and Communications Specialist, at Catholic Charities at 607
526-0091 or visit the Catholic Charities’ website or Facebook page.
About Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler: Catholic Charities provides
support to individuals and families in our community to help them live a more
self-reliant life. The agency specializes in emergency services and housing
support. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester operates agencies
serving twelve Western New York counties, from the Southern Tier to Rochester,
including Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler. For more information on
services, please visit CatholicCharitiesCS.org or ccdor.org.