Charlestown declares zero tolerance for domestic violence in citywide pledge

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A southern Indiana city pledged to increase domestic violence awareness on Saturday.

The city of Charlestown made a declaration to be a Zero Tolerance Domestic Violence City at an event at The Depot. It was part of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Charlestown partnered with the Center for Women and Families, a local nonprofit, to provide resources for families.

“My highest priority is ensuring that everyone who calls Charlestown home feels safe,” Mayor Treva Hodges said in a news release. “Our zero Tolerance policy for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault demonstrates our commitment to protecting our families. This year’s event asks our residents to make a pledge to help us reach our goal by committing to being advocates and ending cycles of violence.”

The event had music, inflatables for children, giveaways, food and drinks.

"We commend the City of Charlestown for its commitment to Zero Tolerance of Domestic Violence and for bringing attention to this crime," Elizabeth Martin, President and CEO at The Center for Women and Families, said in a news release. “Through the work that Mayor Hodges and the citizens of Charlestown are doing to raise awareness that domestic violence is a public health issue and that there is zero tolerance, they are setting a standard that other cities need to follow.”

If you want help escaping an abusive relationship, call the Center for Women and Families 24/7 hotline at 844-237-2331. Their website also helps with information on prevention, education and navigating protective orders in the courts. Click here.

There are additional resources across the country. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence and needs assistance, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 800-799-SAFE or clicking here.

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Charlestown declares zero tolerance for domestic violence in citywide pledge