Domestic violence can be physical, verbal, sexual or emotional, and often involves intimidation or economic deprivation. It occurs in all cultures and touches people of all races, ethnicities and religions. In the United States, 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner, totaling more than 10 million victims each year. One in three women and one in four men report they have been victims of some form of physical violence by an intimate partner within their lifetime. More than 20,000 phone calls per day are placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide.

Part of CWLC’s mission is to ensure that women and children have access to resources to help protect and overcome violence, including creating innovative programs to raise awareness, while bringing justice and expanded services to victims of domestic violence.
One way you can support Domestic Violence Awareness Month is by donating to the national Handbags of Hope event on Saturday, October 8, 2016. This outreach effort seeks donations of new or slightly used handbags that are stuffed with personal care items including a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, lotion, a comb or brush, feminine hygiene products and a $15 gift card to Target or Walgreens. The bags are then given to domestic violence shelters throughout Los Angeles. Click here for more information or contact CWLC if you would like to donate a handbag!

Purple is the color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Throughout the month, please join CWLC in wearing purple to show your support for survivors and your commitment to putting an end to domestic violence.