For Immediate Release
March 19, 2009

Contact:    Rick Liebel
                Public Relations and Development Director
                814 455-1774 Ext. 234
                814 881-6530 cell

Domestic Violence Figures Increase for February

All over the nation men, women, and children will participate in activities and events to raise the national conscience about domestic violence. People from all lifestyles, all economic, cultural and social backgrounds can become a victim of domestic violence. Sadly, children are often the indirect victim. Just witnessing violence impacts a child's life, especially if it takes place in the home - a place where children should feel safe. If children have been exposed to domestic violence, it increases their chances to be either a batterer or victim.

During the month of February 2009 SafeNet served:

Hotline calls - 147

Victims - Women - 232    Men - 11    Children - 45

Counseling hours - Adults 848      Services to children - 225 hours

As part of SafeNet's mission to raise awareness of the national and regional issue, several events have been planned.

SafeNet is not a homeless shelter, but a safe and confidential place specifically for men, women and children who are victims of domestic violence.  From every city and township in the area, victims come to SafeNet seeking support, safety and shelter from physical abuse and threats of violence occurring at home.  After more than 30 years of providing shelter and many other supportive services, SafeNet knows first-hand that there is hope and there is help. SafeNet is Pennsylvania's oldest continuous running domestic violence shelter.

For interviews with SafeNet's, Executive Director or any staff member of SafeNet, contact Rick Liebel, Public Relations and Development Director at 455-1774 extension 234 or email at rliebel@safeneterie.org.