DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Domestic violence is a significant and difficult issue in Orange County. In 1998, there were 12,706 domestic violence-related calls for assistance in Orange County. Dealing with these cases and creating an atmosphere that fosters prevention is a continual challenge for this county.

I have worked very hard on several fronts to work toward healthy families and reducing domestic violence. I have teamed up with Judge Pam Iles of South Court, and our South County shelters - Human Options and Laura's House - to work on three key conferences:

Children in Crisis:

This is an annual conference at the Irvine Marriott that trains teachers for their role in domestic violence. Often, in situations of abuse, the teachers in schools are the only people young children can turn to for advice, counseling, and help. Our goal at this conference is to train these mandated reporters about how and when to get involved, and what will happen after they do. This is the 4th year of this conference which we do in conjunction with the school districts. Thanks to funding from the County and other donors, it is free of charge to the schools and teachers. This program won a statewide award from the court system.

Families in Crisis:

Having a working relationship between the County of Orange and faith leaders is critical to the success in dealing with domestic violence. We have had a faith-based conference for religious leaders and representatives from law enforcement and social services to address our common goals of dealing with and preventing domestic violence. Over 20 faiths were represented at this highly successful day last spring.

Teens in Crisis:

This winter, we had our first ever teen conference to talk frankly with teens about date violence and healthy relationships. It was a powerful and moving day, and those who left had an increased understanding of their responsibilities and obligations in creating positive partnerships. So many of these young people had no idea what a healthy, loving relationship is like, and it was a very positive day.

In addition to these conferences, I have spent a great deal of time working with our shelters to increase their funding base, through the marriage license tax, and to ensure their financial stability. Both of our South County shelters help so many of our residents, and your time and resources are needed.

If you would like to assist our local shelters, or if you are, or know someone, in an abusive relationship, I urge you to call:

HUMAN OPTIONS AT 949-854-3554

LAURA'S HOUSE AT 949-498-1511

Additionally, help can be obtained from:

NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: 1-800-799-7233

CALIFORNIA YOUTH CRISIS LINE: 1-800-843-5200

County of Orange website on Domestic Violence: Domestic Violence Information