Candlelight vigil in Shelton to remember domestic violence victims, honor survivors

SHELTON - Every October, the nation observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month to bring light to an issue that effects all of our communities. 

Every 9 seconds, a woman is abused in the U.S. One in four women and one in seven men in the U.S. are victims of domestic violence at some point in their lives.

To raise awareness about domestic violence, BHcare’s The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services and Hope Family Justice Center of New Haven will hold a vigil to honor survivors and remember the victims of domestic violence. 

Our annual Candlelight Vigil will be held Oct.11 at 6 p.m. at Veterans Park, 38 Canal Street East.

Roberta J. Cook, President / CEO BHcare and Mayor Mark Lauretti will open the ceremony followed by keynote speaker Susan M. Omilian JD. 

Omilian is an attorney, author, trainer, and motivational speaker. She has helped hundreds of women reclaim their lives after violence, abuse, and trauma.

Lt. Robert Weymer of the Milford Police Department and Officer Jorge Nieves of the Ansonia Police Department will be recognized for their role in the fight against domestic violence.

For more information about the vigil, or about domestic violence services visit www.BHcare.org. 

If you need immediate assistance, please call our 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline 1-888-774-2900.

UCDVS is a program of BHcare that provides services for victims and children of domestic violence free of charge. Each year, nearly 6,000 domestic violence victims, survivors and their children walk through the door of UCDVS looking for shelter, help, and hope. 

HFJC, a program of BHcare, is a collaboration of multiple community providers under one roof providing free wraparound services for domestic violence survivors and their families. Victims of domestic violence receive support, healing and pathways to empowerment. 

This is a press release from BHcare.