Many different causes are remembered in October, but an important one is underway now and a reminder of the tragedies happening within families on a local level that impact future generations to continue a horrible cycle.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month began on Tuesday and continues through the end of October, but just ahead of the start of the weekslong reminder the City of Hiram ensured that everyone got a reminder of why it is important to shed a light on a societal scourge.

The September 30 Work Session saw Mayor Frank Moran and the City Council take a moment to provide a proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Dr. Kathryn Melton, founder of the Shepherd’s Rest Ministries in Paulding County, was on hand to receive the proclamation honoring the month.

Founded by Dr. Melton in 1997, Shepherd’s Rest Ministries provides the community with a domestic violence shelter for families escaping from an abuser. More than 5,000 women and children have been provided help through the shelter since its inception more than 25 years ago.

Shepherd’s Rest Ministries has a 24-hour crisis line available at 770-443-5213. Visit their site for more information about how you can help.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month began being recognized in 1989 as the nation began to turn its attention on tackling domestic violence and increasing penalties over the decades for abusers in families. The monthlong reminder of the problems caused by domestic violence also brings opportunities for survivors to share their stories and give back to those who seek to escape relationships that have become abusive.

Figures from the National Child Trauma Stress Network and elsewhere note that one in three women and one in four men are victims of domestic violence, and more than 10 million people experience abuse annually. One in five women and one of every seven men who are victims of domestic violence are severely abused.