2nd annual Domestic Violence Walk in Lexington supports local victims
LEXINGTON, Tenn. — According to statistics, more than 16 million people in the U.S. suffer from intimate partner abuse per year. Recently, local law enforcement and organizations came together for this cause.
The 2nd Domestic Violence Walk took place at Beech Lake Friday. Participants ranged from the Henderson County Sheriff’s Department, Lexington Police Department and Wo/Men’s Resource and Rape Assistance program or WRAP.
“We have conducted this walk for the last 2 years with law enforcement so that the survivors in Henderson County can come and participate and know that they are not standing alone. They have a team of professionals willing to work with them and walk with them in solidarity against domestic abuse,” said Penny Hensley, site coordinator for the Henderson County Justice Center.
As of October 21st, there will be a justice center in Henderson County to provide all of the services victims may need.
“It’s a one stop wrap around service location that’ll include WRAP services, law enforcement and it will also have space for the DA and also West TN Legal Services to provide the services that they offer for survivors in this county,” said Hensley.
The proclamation was signed by Lexington Mayor Jeff Griggs.
District Attorney General Jody Pickens also had words at the event.
“October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. You will see us everywhere. Purple ribbons everywhere, that’s a sign of domestic violence. Domestic violence doesn’t respect race, economic status or any of that,” said Mamie Hutcherson, executive director of WRAP.
Purple cones were around the area that participants walked. Those cones represented survivors and those who fell victim to domestic abuse.
“WRAP is here. WRAP is here to help. Our services are free and confidential. Nobody has to know you talked to us and also you decide what you want and how much you want us to help you,” said Hutcherson.
The Henderson County Justice Center will be the 14th family justice center to open in the state of Tennessee.
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