Domestic Violence Awareness in Imperial County

Next month is National Domestic Violence Awareness month.

It’s meant to shed light on the millions of people who have been affected by physical and emotional abuse.

The Imperial County Board of Supervisors proclaimed October 2019 “Domestic Violence Awareness Month” in the valley.

“To know that we are not going to accept domestic violence as of way of being here in Imperial County,” said Gina Vargas, Woman Haven Executive Director.

” It’s a collective effort that we need to support that type of issue. I have three daughters so it’s something that is near and dear to my heart. It’s something we need to look into and support as a community, ” said Jesus Escobar, District 1 board supervisor.

Vargas says approximately 700 people seek help from woman haven each year, she says that number keeps increasing.

Woman haven has seen an increase from women who live out of the county seeking help in Imperial County. They also say men experiencing abuse are also starting to look for help.

Woman haven recently opened a new shelter that will help house at least a dozen more women in need.

“A little abuse is abuse, and lets not accept it, lets not tolerate it,” said vargas .

” All these individuals that need that voice , we are that voice for them at times. So declaring the month of October domestic violence awareness, is very important to us and the clients we are helping, ” said Adriana Veliz , Woman Haven.

Woman Haven hopes this proclamation encourages women to seek help against abuse.

They say they are willing to help and advise any person who is going through hard times.

On Wednesday, October 2, Woman Haven will be marching against domestic violence starting at 5:00 p.m. in front of the El Centro Courthouse.