The largest study ever conducted on the frequency of violence against women's data was published in 2021 by the World Health Organization (WHO). The report reveals that 1 in 3 women will experience rape, domestic abuse, human trafficking, or some other form of violence. The United Nations has set November 25th as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
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Most women who are exposed to violence do not explicitly disclose their experiences. Here are some signs to look for and ways you can help:
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The victim…
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- shows nervous or timid behavior
- hides information about her life
- blames herself for things that are not her fault
- starts wearing heavy make-up to cover up bruises and other injuries
- starts to isolate from family and friends
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According to the Center for Prevention of Abuse, here are ways you can help:
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- Approach the person at a time that is safe and confidential.
- Start by expressing concerns such as, I am worried about your safety, I am concerned someone is hurting you.
- Take the time to listen and believe what she says.
- Reassure her. Let her know that she does not deserve to be hurt. She is not crazy.
- Build up her self-esteem. Let her know you think she is strong, smart, and brave.
- Respect her choices.
- Help her expand her support group via friends and family, or through a victims’ agency.
- Be patient. Go at her pace, not yours.
- Help her to get the help she needs.
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If the victim’s abuser has taken away her phone, tablet, or other forms of communication, non-profit organizations such as the 911 Cell Phone Bank (911CPB) can help. The 911CPB securely recycles and donates cellphones to law enforcement and victims’ agencies. Agencies can then distribute phones to victims in need, allowing them to now have a reliable connection to contact emergency services when the need arises. These phones are saving lives:
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“A client who was residing with her abuser was able to work with her victim advocate to create a safety plan including hiding spots for a private phone. She used it exclusively for connecting with advocates and applying for jobs without her abuser knowing. Eventually, she was able to safely leave and relocate to a new town.”
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- Nicole Castillo, Program Director, Rose Andom Center, Denver, CO
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HOW YOU CAN HELP:
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Do you have a cellphone, tablet, or other small electronic device in your home that you are no longer using? Does your company have a lost-and-found room that contains unclaimed devices that have been left behind by guests? Even if these devices are broken, please consider donating them to the 911 Cell Phone Bank. The program is 100% FREE, tax-deductible, and guaranteed secure. Click here to print a free shipping label.
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Every phone has a story, and every phone helps people in ways that we cannot imagine. Thank you for helping vulnerable women in your community!
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