LAKEPORT >> On Wednesday, Oct. 8, health care partners throughout Lake County showed their support of Health Cares About Domestic Violence Day by wearing purple in honor of victims of domestic violence.
Health Cares About Domestic Violence Day is a nationally recognized awareness-raising day that takes place annually on the second Wednesday of October. Sponsored by Futures Without Violence (www.futureswithoutviolence.org), the day aims to reach members of the health care community and educate them about the critical importance of assessing for domestic violence, as well as the long term health implications of domestic violence.
The Lake Family Resource Center reached out to Lake County health care organizations to let them know about Health Cares About Domestic Violence Day. Staff and medical professionals from Sutter Lakeside Hospital, Lake County Department of Public Health, Lake County Tribal Health, Mendocino Community Health Clinic, St. Helena Family Health Center-Kelseyville, St. Helena Family Health Center-Middletown, St. Helena Family Health Center-Konocti Wellness, St. Helena Hospital-Clearlake, and St. Helena Family Health Center-Clearlake all donned their purple attire in a unified show of support.
“We know that domestic violence occurs in families of all shapes and sizes, regardless of economics, class, religion, or community status,” said Gloria Flaherty, executive director at Lake Family Resource Center. “Shame serves to keep the cycle in place. We want to support our health care workers in identifying patients whose homes may be dangerous places. The Lake Family Resource Center has been helping victims of domestic violence find safety for years.”
Siri Nelson, Sutter Lakeside Hospital Chief Administrative Officer, added that “We appreciate being able to partner in any way that we can with our local agencies. This was not only a good cause, but it was a great reminder for our staff about an issue that affects our patients, our friends, and our neighbors.”
Participants received a purple ribbon pin and had their pictures taken.
