Domestic violence group reaches out

The domestic violence organization covering Cameron and Elk counties launched an outreach campaign to mark October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

"Help is available," said Billie Jo Weyant, director of Elk/Cameron Citizens Against Physical, Sexual and Emotional Abuse (CAPSEA).

"Anyone who is a victim of domestic violence should at least become familiar with the services we provide," Weyant added. "You don't even have to give your name when you call. All services are provided in the strictest confidence."

CAPSEA emergency help and counseling are available,'round the clock, through a Cameron County hotline: 486-0952. The local office is also integrated with the national domestic violence hotline: 1-800-799- 7233. CAPSEA's Cameron County office can be reached at 486-1227.

Rural areas present difficult challenges for domestic violence victims, according to Rochelle Nestlerode, a child counselor and advocate for CAPSEA.

Victims often suffer silently and are reluctant to inform others of their plight. Many do not know that help is as close as their telephone.

CAPSEA can provide advice, legal advocacy, liaisons with police, counseling for adults and children, and other services. Transportation is another key part of its support program for domestic violence victims, Nestlerode pointed out.

"We deal with women every day who can't get to court, can't get to hospitals and medical appointments," she added.

Statistics from CAPSEA measure the extent of the problem in Elk and Cameron counties. In 2005, the organization provided shelter to 27 women and children. Some 1,155 new victims of abuse came forward. CAPSEA provided housing assistance to 355 individuals and delivered food and gifts to 194 individuals during the holidays.

"One-third of American women report being physically or sexually abused," Weyant said. "Abuse is the single largest cause of injury to women in the United States. Opportunities are available to get out of these situations, though. On average, most women leave abusive situations 10 to 12 times before they're actually gone for good."

CAPSEA, a private, nonprofit organization, will soon mark its 30th year of service.

On Saturday, Nov. 18, at 6:00 p.m., CAPSEA will hold its annual fund-raising dinner at the Royal Inn. Acoustic artist Pork McElhinny will perform.