Go Purple for Domestic Violence Awareness
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). First observed in October 1981 as a national “Day of Unity,” DVAM is commemorated each October as a way to unite advocates across the nation in their efforts to end domestic violence.
Domestic violence (DV) occurs in every part of our city, among people of all races, cultures, religions, and income levels. It can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation.
While domestic violence is considered one of the most under-reported crimes, in 2021 there were 260,084 domestic violence incident reports filed by the NYPD – an average of 700 a day. In 2021, there were 93,735 calls to New York City’s 24-hour Domestic Violence hotline at 1-800-621-HOPE (4673), with 6,970 unique requests for shelters. The NYC Hope website, which has information about gender-based violence and resources for survivors had 50,100 visits – an average of almost 140 visits a day. Calls to the New York State hotline increased nearly 45% during the pandemic.
There are many ways that you can be an ally this October and all year long:
- Wear purple on October 17 for #PurpleThursday in recognition of survivors and let them know that help is available
- Share the NYS Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline number: call 800.942.6906, text 844.997.2121, or chat live
- Share the National Domestic Violence Hotline: visit thehotline.org, call 1-800-799-7233 (TTY 1-800-787-3224), or text “START” to 88788
- Join a Domestic Violence 101 training
- Share resources with friends, family, coworkers, or the people we serve (you can also filter resources on the NYC Hope website by location, service, etc.)
- Here are more ways to be an ally all year long from the Hotline, NYC Hope, and the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence
S:US operates two domestic violence shelters in New York City, offering respite and sanctuary for women, men, and their children who have experienced domestic violence. We provide counseling and a place where individuals and families can feel safe and secure so they can rebuild their lives.
Thank you to our amazing staff for supporting the families in our shelters, stabilizing their lives, and helping them find permanent housing.