TRACY HARRIS
Staff Writer
The Marshall County Prevention Coalition (MCPC) held their monthly meeting on Thursday, Oct. 19 at 5:30 p.m. at the Marshall County Memorial Library. The MCPC is a community coalition that provides resources through education, community and organizational support that come together to reduce youth prevention, misuse, and provide mental health wellness. President Liz Bensinger gave a “Year in Review” presentation that showed all the events the organization has participated in.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month but it is now more commonly referred to as Intimate Partner Violence, or IPV.
October’s speaker was Kellye Gilbert from The Haven of Hope. Gilbert gave an overview of the program and their services. “The place is more than just a shelter now,” Gilbert said. They now have five outreach offices outside of shelter service to help victims of Intimate Partner Violence. While 85% of victims are female, there are services for male victims. The organization can accommodate members of the LGBTQ+ community when shelter is needed too.
Haven of Hope offers the following:
- a 24/7 hotline available at 1-800-435-7739
- emergency services
- individual assessment/service planning
- counseling
- advocacy & accompaniment
- court/legal assistance
- training & education
Gilbert stressed the importance of safety as a goal since leaving abruptly without a plan can be more harmful. Gilbert pointed out, “We don’t make the mistake of assuming that the victim must leave. It is not always safest to leave. Leaving needs to be taken seriously and planned carefully.” In fact, 75% of victims murdered by an abusive partner are murdered as they are attempting to leave or right after they have left.
If you or someone you know needs services, the center is open Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Marshall County Haven of Hope can be reached at (931) 422-2277.
The next MCPC will be Nov. 16 at 5:30 p.m. at the library.
