ESCANABA – October is domestic violence awareness month. Haili Young, a crimes victim advocate with Tri-County Safe Harbor in Escanaba said domestic violence is a problem in the area.

“I think it is a big problem and I think it is not seen,” she said. “We’re here to do anything we can for victims and survivors of domestic violence. I think if the community comes together with us it’s going to make a big difference.”

They are asking the communities support by placing a purple LED candle in their homes from October 20th through the 30. Young says the shelter is dedicating the Light in the Window campaign in honor of Heather Batchelor was killed in her home allegedly by her estranged husband.

 

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Despite recent events locally as well as nationally, Young said domestic violence is still an issue that is not easily talked about.

“I think it’s an issue, especially most recently, that has been really brought to the surface and it’s one that isn’t easy to talk about. The people get support the more they will come out and leave a relationship that isn’t very good or help someone they see might be struggling,” said Young.

The purple LED lights for the Light in the Window campaign can be picked up for free at Pink Sugar Company, Salon West, Ludington Grill and Tri-County Safe Harbor.