October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  Madeline’s House would like to share some facts with you on domestic violence.

• The number one cause of death during pregnancy in the United States is domestic violence.

• During the years of the Iraq war, almost twice as many women died due to domestic violence than soldiers (11,766 women and 6,614 soldiers).

• 10 million children are exposed to domestic violence a year.

• 63 percent of homelessness of women is due to domestic violence.

• 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will be victims of domestic violence.

These statistics are alarming. However, there are ways that you can help. Be supportive if someone you know is a victim; offer help or offer to get them help. Teach healthy relationship skills to the youth in your life, and contact a local shelter to volunteer or for more ideas.

To contact Madeline’s House, call (434) 292-1077.