Monday, Mayor Tim Theaker issued a proclamation declaring the month of October "Domestic Violence Awareness Month."

  A kick off was held in downtown Mansfield to mark the beginning of activities taking place throughout the month to bring awareness to domestic violence in our community.

  "The movement has been around for more than 33 years," says Katherine Ezawa, Executive Director of the Domestic Violence Shelter in Richland County. "So, we as a movement, have been bringing awareness to our community for a long time. However, we're becoming more and more cognizant of the fact that there are still folks who don't know that we have services available to them."
  
  During the event, advocates, first responders and those who work with victims and survivors were recognized for the work they do every day, including Mansfield Police Chief Dino Sgambellone. 

 If you or someone you know needs the assistance of the Domestic Violence Shelter in Richland County - call 1-800-931-SAFE.