By BOB MARTIN
Eagle Times Staff
CLAREMONT, N.H. — In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Claremont City Council issued a proclamation to the Turning Points Network at their last meeting. The local organization helps survivors of domestic and sexual abuse on a daily basis, working with the community to promote empowerment, advocacy and awareness.
Mayor Dale Girard read the proclamation to Prevention Educator/Volunteer Coordinator Jen Gallagher, who was at the meeting to receive the written proclamation from the city council. He recognized the hard work that the Turning Points Network puts in on a daily basis, serving residents of the city of Claremont and beyond.
“Domestic violence is a serious and pervasive crime affecting millions of women, men, children and communities every year,” Girard read in front of the council with Gallagher by his side.
Turning Points Network has a goal of creating a community that is responsive to victims and survivors by using education, outreach and accountability. Part of the mission statement is also to create a safer culture within the community.
Girard noted that domestic violence can have consequences emotionally, mentally, socially and physically. He said relationship violence can jeopardize the future and wellbeing of towns and cities, where it is estimated that one in two women and one in four men have experienced this type of abuse in their lifetime.
Turning Point Network provides safety for those who have experienced, or are experiencing, domestic abuse and sexual assault. It offers 24-hour crisis support, shelter for advocacy, peer counseling, safety planning, prevention and education. Girard touched upon how the organization works with public health officials, law enforcement, schools, civic groups, the court system and community members.
“We, the council of the city of Claremont, hereby honor domestic violence survivors and advocate the naming of October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month,” Girard said.
Turning Points Network offers services free of charge and has a 24-hour crisis and support line, as well as a shelter, safe housing, and case management. It assists with court advocacy, safety planning, transportation, counseling, transitional housing, emergency child care and more. It is also a hub to provide information and referral to residents within Sullivan County.
For more information log onto turningpointsnetwork.org.
