County domestic violence rising
By Anna Mitchell

In this country, women are more often victims of domestic violence than victims of burglary, muggings, or other physical crimes combined.

Almost four million American women were physically abused by their husbands or boyfriends in the last year alone, and two-thirds of attacks on women were committed by someone the victim knew-- often a husband or a boyfriend.

Domestic violence continues to be an ongoing problem that plagues this country as well as our county. The increasing number of domestic violence cases in this region is proof of the severity of the problem.

"The number of domestic violence victims we serve are climbing," said Brandi Watkins of the Murphy Sheriff's Department. From 2004 to the end of 2006, the number of domestic violence victims served has risen an astounding 76.7% according to the Sheriff's Department.

In the 2006-2007 annual report for Reach,Inc. which provides services to the survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, the number of support and crisis calls were 6,214. There were also 445 new clients, and 67 new sheltered women and children.

While the numbers of domestic violence victims continue to increase, there are many resources that are available to those in need.

In its 25th year of serving Cherokee County the mission of Reach, Inc. is to provide advocacy, supportive services and raise awareness about women's rights including but not limited to, family violence and sexual assault.

The programs of the Reach, Inc. task force include a 24 hour crisis line, a battered women's sup- port group, medical and legal advocacy, hospital, accompaniment to court, and the department of social services , information and referral, temporary shelter, community education, date rape and dating violence prevention programs, good touch/bad touch programs, and sexual assault support group.

Reach, Inc. also has created a Women's Resource Center which is designed to meet the needs of the displaced homemaker and motivate them into making plans for a better life. In 2006-2007 159 new clients were served, with 21 being placed back in school.

While Reach, Inc. is a private non profit organization that is funded by state and federal grants, they also rely on their October phonathon for funding and are always looking for more volunteers. Volunteer training for Reach will begin July 16th through the 18th and will be from 5:30 to 7:30 pm.

The Victims of Violent Crimes program is also searching for active volunteers.