Crisis Center: Gift Program For Domestic Violence Awareness Month

TINLEY PARK, IL — One in four women and one in nine men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, according to the Crisis Center for South Suburbia. Domestic violence is a pattern of physical and psychological abuse, threats, intimidation, isolation or economic coercion used to exert power and control over someone, and can affect anyone. It is the most common, but least reported crime in the United States, the center said.

Supporting victims of domestic violence for 43 years, The Crisis Center for South Suburbia has helped and educated over 70,000 people, and offers free emergency shelter, community-based housing, counseling, advocacy and prevention and education programs, according to a news release from the center.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the Crisis Center has been working with corporate partner, BMO Harris Bank, to increase awareness and raise needed funds to support victims of domestic violence and their children.

“UN Women has referred to violence against women during COVID-19 as the ‘shadow pandemic’ lurking in the background as healthcare systems are drained, and shelters are at capacity. It’s critical that we support organizations like the Crisis Center that provide valuable support and resources to survivors,” said Alma Velasquez, Community Giving Manager, BMO Harris Bank.

Velasquez added, “Boldly growing the good in business and life is our purpose at BMO, and supporting the Crisis Center’s #31derfulways campaign is a perfect example of what that means.”

According to the release, the #31derfulways social media awareness and fundraising campaign has reached thousands of community members since it launched earlier this month. As part of the campaign, BMO Harris Bank is matching all donations to the Crisis Center for South Suburbia, up to $15,000, throughout October.

Despite the pandemic, in the past year the non-profit agency provided 28,000 hours of service to over 2,200 adults and children who are survivors of domestic violence, the release states.

“We can’t help victims of domestic violence without the support of the community,” said Pam Kostecki, Executive Director. “The reality is that everyone knows someone whose life has been impacted by domestic violence.”

The Crisis Center for South Suburbia must raise over one million dollars each year from the community in order to offer free housing, counseling, outreach and educational services in the south suburban area, the release states. To donate or get more information about domestic violence, visit www.crisisctr.org.

If you’re living in fear, and need help, call the 24-hour confidential hotline at 708-429-SAFE.