Domestic violence is more than a crime. As Haven House Program Manager Anna Tillotson says, domestic violence is a power and control issue.

“One of the things with domestic violence is, it is not just physical abuse. There is mental, verbal, emotional and even financial abuse.”

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and for four decades, Haven House has been a refuge for abused women and children who have found themselves in a domestic violence situation in Warren County.

Tillotson didn’t have an estimate for how many women the shelter has helped over the years, but she said the average stay in the shelter is about four months. In that time, they work with the women to apply for social services such as food stamps and Medicaid, to build a resume and hopefully find a job, while also working with the women on their emotional needs.

It is sad that there is a need for a place like Haven House, but we are so very thankful for the women and children they serve.

If you or someone you know is in a domestic violence situation, we encourage you to reach out to Haven House by calling them at 601-638-0555.