During February, Ministry of the Month offerings are designated to Eastside Domestic Violence Program (EDVP).  Abuse hurts families and children.  Domestic violence knows no boundaries and occurs in families from all racial and socio-economic backgrounds. There are an estimated 90,750 domestic violence incidents in King County each year and children living in abusive homes are 70% more likely to also be abused.

Eastside Domestic Violence Program’s mission continues is to end domestic violence in our community through life-saving and life-changing programs and services.  Since 1982, EDVP has provided safety, support, and accessibility to more than 96,000 victims and their children. 

Without EDVP services, victims of domestic violence would have no safe place to go to escape abuse.  Families seeking shelter are in severe physical, emotional, and economic distress. One-hundred percent of the families in EDVP’s shelters are homeless due to domestic violence and 100 percent of the children are traumatized by witnessing or experiencing physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.  The reality is women are often forced to choose between staying in a violent home or living on the streets – many are with children.

Breaking the cycle of violence can be difficult, but with programs like EDVP families can achieve economic self-sufficiency and live free from abuse. 

Investing in the health and well-being of our community can change lives and help children grow up in a peaceful, non-violent environment. Building healthy families now ensures a healthier tomorrow.  Together we can make every home a safe home.

How you can help:  Please make a donation to EDVP by using the offering envelope found in the pew rack and enter the amount you are contributing in the line that says “Ministry of the Month”.  Your support is truly an investment in the lives and health of thousands of families that live and work in our community. Thank you.