Nelcy Vargas of Catholic Charities explains the free, confidential help available through the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program serving nine counties in southwest Iowa. The program offers a 24-hour crisis line, emergency shelter, court advocacy, hospital response, and support groups for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Learn about Purple Thursday, the barriers facing rural survivors, and how you can volunteer or give during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Deacon Mark Campbell welcomes Nelcy Vargas, Program Manager of Victim Services and Outreach for the Catholic Charities Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program, Diocese of Des Moines.
Help That Is Always Available Based in Council Bluffs, the program serves victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking with:
The Need in Rural Iowa Last fiscal year the program served 1,500 victims and survivors, most affected by domestic violence. Eight of the nine counties served are rural, where transportation, housing, and access to services create added barriers.
Purple Thursday Held this year on October 15, Purple Thursday is a national day of action that invites everyone to wear purple to honor survivors and remind them they are not alone.
Get Help — Confidential, 24/7
Get Involved Volunteer or make a monetary gift through Catholic Charities – Diocese of Des Moines.
Listen to The Catholic Morning Show weekdays at 7:00 AM Central at IowaCatholicRadio.com or on the Iowa Catholic Radio app.
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