Letter to | the Editor

To the Editor:

Students around the nine southwest Iowa counties which participate in Healthy Relationships curriculum and/or Mentors In Violence Prevention (MVP) through the Catholic Charities Phoenix House were presented with a Teen Dating Violence Awareness table in their schools during their lunch periods. 

These tables contain statistics on teen dating violence questions to evaluate their own or a loved one’s relationships, and resources in the event that they are in an unhealthy or abusive relationship. The tables also have candy, pens, and chap sticks for the students in an effort to help spread awareness. 

We live in a nation where one in three students report experiencing some form of abuse and more than two out of three never report that abuse to a caring adult.  Parents, school personnel, and youth serving agencies can be a vital link to help teens know they are not alone.  Phoenix House staff are available to talk to those wanting to help and can provide a variety of resources exploring teen dating violence and the best ways to assist.

The committed professional staff at Catholic Charities Phoenix House provides services to the survivors in our community. They also provide prevention programming to help youth learn about healthy relationships as they enter the dating world.  Phoenix House offers a 24/7 hotline where anyone can call for assistance or help with safety planning, which is one of the most important tools we can offer to teens experiencing dating violence.  

Teens have the right to a safe and healthy relationship free from violence and fear.

For more information, please contact Catholic Charities Phoenix House 24/7 Crisis Line 712-328-0266 or 1-888-612-0266.

Catholic Charities

The Red Oak Express

2012 Commerce Drive
P.O. Box 377
Red Oak, IA 51566
Phone: 712-623-2566 Fax: 712-623-2568

Comment Here