Friday, October 23, 2009
Domestic Violence Awareness Month a Time to Remind Community of Resources
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Did you know that one in four women and one in 14 men are victims of domestic violence at some point their life? Presbyterian is working to end the cycle of violence in the Charlotte community with a Project Safe, a recently launched program to offer victims needed medical and community resources. As October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this message is timelier than ever as Presbyterian seeks to raise awareness of new and continued services for victims of domestic violence.
Project Safe is a comprehensive program that addresses the physical, emotional and social needs of patients who are at risk for or are experiencing domestic violence. A team of highly trained medical professionals and counselors are available to provide the care and connection to community resources needed to support our patients and end the cycle of violence.
As part of Project Safe, Presbyterian offers a confidential domestic violence information line to arm victims with domestic violence education, offer community resources and referrals and provide information on safety planning. The line, which can be reached by calling 704-614-7212, operates Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. or between 2 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Sunday. If a caller accesses the line after hours, they can leave a message and will receive a call back.
In case of an emergency, domestic violence victims should call 911 or visit the closest emergency department. Board-certified emergency physicians and specially trained forensic nurse examiners are available 24/7 at our hospital locations in Charlotte, Matthews and Huntersville, to provide comprehensive emergency care including thorough medical evaluation and physical assessment.
For more information on Project Safe or Presbyterian’s domestic violence services, please contact Kellie Harney, forensic nurse manager, at 704-384-3536. To learn more about Presbyterian’s services for victims other forms of abuse including child abuse, elder abuse or sexual abuse, please contact Community Care Services at 704-384-7460.
