Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2026: With Survivors, Always

Survivors deserve safety, support, and a community willing to take action. This October, the Statesville Police Department joins in recognizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the 2026 national campaign theme, “With Survivors, Always.”

This year’s focus, “Survivors deserve action,” encourages each of us to turn awareness into meaningful support. Standing with survivors means listening, respecting their choices, helping connect them with resources, and supporting the organizations that provide care when it is needed most.

Walking Together in Support of Survivors

The event kicked off Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a community walk focused on raising awareness about domestic and sexual violence, supporting survivors, and inspiring hope.

The program also included a proclamation, survivor stories, community resources, educational outreach, and a donation drive benefiting My Sister’s House.

Chief David Onley and Captain Christy Cleary were honored to join Foundation of Hope Ministries, the Statesville Woman's Club, and community partners for Walk a Mile in Their Shoes, raising awareness about domestic and sexual violence and showing support for survivors. Councilwoman Lisa Pearson also joined the event to present the proclamation urging our community to stand with survivors, raise awareness, support prevention efforts, and take meaningful action to help end domestic violence. 

Thank you to the Statesville Woman’s Club, community partners, and everyone who participated. Coming together helps strengthen the network of support available to survivors and their families throughout our community.

Turn Awareness into Action

Support can begin with a conversation and continue through everyday acts of care. If someone shares that they are experiencing abuse:

• Listen without judgment. Let them know you care and that they do not deserve abuse.
• Respect their choices. Offer support without pressuring them to make a particular decision.
• Help them find resources. Offer to connect them with an advocate who can discuss options and safety planning.
• Keep showing up. Continued encouragement and practical help can make a difference as they navigate their next steps.

You can also support local services by asking about current donation needs and volunteer opportunities. My Sister’s House, a program of Fifth Street Ministries, provides shelter and support for women and children escaping domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking, along with advocacy and individualized assistance. Learn more about My Sister’s House.

Help Is Available

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, support is available:

• Immediate danger: Call 911.
• My Sister’s House 24-hour crisis line: Call 704-872-3403.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or visit TheHotline.org for free, confidential support available 24/7.

This October and throughout the year, we can help build a community where survivors are heard, supported, and connected with care. With survivors, always. Survivors deserve action.