Safe Haven’s 2024 Stronger Together luncheon this week was a heartfelt gathering designed to raise awareness about domestic violence and show unwavering support for victims and survivors.
Held in October, which was proclaimed Domestic Violence Awareness Month by the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners, the luncheon brought together local leaders, law enforcement, and advocates dedicated to combating the impact of domestic violence in the community.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Kim Billings, Safe Haven’s Legal Services and Public Relations Director. Billings highlighted Safe Haven’s mission: “Safe Haven’s mission is to serve, strengthen, and support victims of domestic violence."
After recognizing the Safe Haven team, Billings invited Roy Thompson, Chairman of the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners, to take the stage. Thompson, a longtime supporter of Safe Haven, emphasized the critical role the organization plays in helping families throughout the county.
“This is a vital organization for Bulloch County,” Thompson said. “We need to continue supporting these efforts to help those in need.”
Thompson also presented the county’s official proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, signed by all the commissioners. The proclamation outlined the widespread and devastating effects of domestic violence, calling it a violation of individuals’ privacy, dignity, security, and humanity.
"Domestic violence isn’t confined to one group of people; it crosses all economic, racial, and social barriers,” Thompson read from the proclamation. “The Bulloch County Board of Commissioners is committed to restoring the right to freedom from fear in our homes and communities.” Thompson's remarks reinforced the idea that domestic violence is a community issue requiring a community-wide response.
Next, Pastor Donald Chavers led the invocation, praying for the safety and healing of all those affected by domestic violence. He also blessed the meal, which was served as attendees continued to reflect on the serious nature of the event.
One of the most impactful moments of the luncheon came when a domestic violence survivor from Bulloch County took the stage to share her powerful testimony. The speaker revealed that she had spent 16 years in an abusive relationship. Her heartfelt recount of surviving both emotional and physical abuse resonated deeply with the audience.
The survivor spoke candidly about the long-lasting effects of domestic violence and her experience with stalking after leaving her abusive relationship.
“Eighty percent of stalking cases lead to homicide,” she noted. “I’m part of the 20% that can provide a living testimony.” Her bravery in sharing her story left many attendees visibly moved, and she thanked Safe Haven for being her lifeline, comparing the organization to a “non-conducting resource” that helped her safely escape. People in attendance then gave her a standing round of applause.
Representative Bill Hitchens followed, offering his perspective from over 55 years of service in law enforcement and public safety. Hitchens, who has worked closely with shelters across the state, emphasized the importance of supporting organizations like Safe Haven, particularly as funding for domestic violence programs faces federal cuts.
“We were able to enhance personnel and structures with federal funds, but that funding has been drastically reduced,” Hitchens explained. He also noted the emotional toll that working in public safety can have on those tasked with assisting domestic violence victims, thanking those in attendance for their continued commitment to the cause.
Representative Lehman Franklin added his thoughts on the challenges faced by those experiencing domestic violence. He shared his pride in passing a stalking bill that provided victims more protection, reducing the number of times they would need to return to court for an extension of protection orders.
“Hearing from people who have benefited from the bill makes me feel like we’re actually making a difference,” Franklin said.
Law enforcement also played a central role in the discussions, with Chief Mike Broadhead of the Statesboro Police Department and Sheriff Noel Brown of Bulloch County offering their insights. Chief Broadhead emphasized that domestic violence, much like other crimes rooted in power and control, requires men to take responsibility and stand up against the mistreatment of women.
“Men have to tell other men that it’s not okay,” Broadhead said, reflecting on how abusive behaviors can be passed down through generations. “Batterers raise batterers.”
Sheriff Brown echoed Broadhead’s sentiments, pointing to the importance of early intervention. “We need to stop this before it’s too far along,” Brown stated, stressing the role that law enforcement and the judicial system play in preventing the cycle of abuse from continuing. He also thanked Safe Haven for their ongoing collaboration with law enforcement, particularly in obtaining temporary protective orders and providing necessary resources to victims.
Closing remarks were made by Lily Gray, Executive Director of The Teal House, and Kristen Kramer from Child Advocacy Services. Both highlighted the significant overlap between domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse, praising Safe Haven for their tireless efforts to support victims. Gray acknowledged the strong community partnerships that allow their organizations to collaborate effectively, ensuring that no victim is left without support.
“We are stronger together,” Kramer added, aligning her message with the theme of the luncheon.
As the event drew to a close, Billings encouraged attendees to visit Safe Haven’s outreach center and take home informational materials to share with their workplaces and communities.
“Every time we raise awareness, we create a ripple effect,” Billings concluded, echoing the luncheon’s message of collective responsibility. “Together, we can create a future where survivors and their families can thrive free from violence.”
The 2024 Stronger Together Luncheon left attendees with a renewed sense of purpose, underscoring the importance of advocacy, support, and awareness in the fight against domestic violence. Through the combined efforts of Safe Haven, local leaders, and community members, the hope for a violence-free future remains within reach.
Please remember Safe Haven’s Crisis Line is available 24/7 at (912) 764-4605.
Reminder: Get your tickets now for Dancing with the Statesboro Stars, the signature fundraising event for Safe Haven!
The 14th season of "Dancing with the Statesboro Stars" is set to entertain audiences on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 6:30 pm, with an additional performance scheduled for Sunday, November 24, 2024, at 3:00 pm. Both events will take place at Connection Church at 1342 Cawana Road in Statesboro, GA.