Got 5,000 Phone Calls: Domestic Violence Group Plans Art Show, Events

PARAMUS, NJ — The Center for Hope & Safety, a Bergen County group that provides housing and support for families leaving domestic violence, has planned several events for the next few weeks in October for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

In 2024, Center answered more than 5,000 hotline calls and provided shelter and emotional support to nearly 1,500 survivors across Bergen County, the group said.

The group recently held its annual Light Up the Night Against Domestic Violence candlelight vigil, remembering local victims during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

This Tuesday, they'll hold the annual "Art of Survival" exhibit, recognizing the work of DV survivors.

Artwork And Shoe Symbolism

The 12th Annual ‘Art of Survival’ Exhibition takes place from 6-8 p.m. in Demarest.

"Baring Our Soles returns as a cornerstone of the exhibit, featuring hand-decorated shoes that symbolize the deeply personal journeys of survivors and honor the courage it takes to turn pain into purpose," the group said.

"This year’s event also debuts The Freedom Purse, a powerful new project that continues that spirit of transformation. Each handcrafted purse serves as a vessel for what was once hidden, giving voice to survival and reflecting the evolution into something beautiful, meaningful, and empowering."

The event is free and open to the public, and the full exhibit will remain on display at The Art School at Old Church throughout October. Thevenue is located at 561 Piermont Road, Demarest.

See highlights from last year’s exhibit here: https://www.hopeandsafetynj.or...

Make A Plan

The group said that with more than 70,000 domestic violence incidents reported in New Jersey each year, and more than 41 percent of women and 26 percent of men nationwide affected by intimate partner violence, the need for support remains urgent.

“With nearly five decades of experience, we remain committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where survivors of domestic violence can begin to heal, reclaim their independence and rebuild their lives with hope,” said Dr. Julye Myner, the CEO.

The group has said in the past that even if someone is not read to leave an abusive situation, that person — or a friend or relative — can call the group to discuss options and make a plan.

More Events

Other events coming up include:

• Purple Thursday: Wear Purple, Share Hope

This coming Thursday,, join Center for Hope & Safety in going purple to show your support for survivors and help raise awareness about domestic violence. Individuals, schools, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to wear purple and post photos on social media using #PurpleThursday. Don’t forget to tag @chsbergennj so Center for Hope & Safety can share your posts and showcase your support.

• Walk Together Against Domestic Violence

The 3K walk will be held on Oct. 25 (a Saturday) with 9:30 a.m. registration, 10:15 a.m. walk. Those participating are encouraged to come to Van Saun County Park – Parking Lot 9, Pavilion I, 216 Forest Ave.

Join Center for Hope & Safety for a family-friendly 3K walk in support of domestic violence prevention and survivor services. This year’s Walk Together Against Domestic Violence marks the 10th annual event. Attendees are encouraged to wear purple, form teams, and bring signs of support. Registration is required, and there is a $30 donation required to participate. For more information on registering or sponsorship opportunities, visit: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/3ZP6_w?vid=1ll71q.

• 7th Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Symposium

This event will be held Oct. 22 at New Milford High School. Center for Hope & Safety will join other community partners in addressing the rise of tech abuse and digital safety. This event is for the school community.

How To Get Help

If you or someone you know needs help, call Center for Hope & Safety’s free, confidential 24/7 hotline at (201) 944-9600. Learn more at https://www.hopeandsafetynj.or...

In addition, each county in New Jersey has a domestic violence agency, and the state has its own hotline.

The national domestic violence hotline, reachable through phone, text, or chat, is 800-799-SAFE (7233), or you can text "Start" to 88788 to reach them by text.

The New Jersey hotline is 1-800-572-SAFE (7233). The list of county agencies and other information on how to protect oneself legally in New Jersey is here.