Monroe will recognize Domestic Violence Month with a candlelight vigil honoring the victims at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 16. It's the 3rd annual ceremony put on by the Center for Women & Families, which has a satellite office at town hall.
"We hold vigils to honor and remember victims and their families who have been affected by domestic violence," said Debra Greenwood, director of CWF. "We also hold vigils to heighten the awareness in our communities so people know we are a free and confidential resource for anyone in need of counseling, intervention or crisis services."
Vida Stone, administrative assistant to First Selectman Steve Vavrek, serves on the Advisory Board for CWF's Monroe office, which first opened three years ago.
"It's just going to be a very special event to bring awareness to domestic violence," Stone said. "It's really important to have the satellite office here in Monroe too, so I'm very pleased that the first selectman approved it at town hall. We're just hoping people come out and participate in the event."
In the case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved inside to the main lobby of Monroe Town Hall.
Monroe's first candlelight vigil was held three years ago and was followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony for the satellite office at town hall. Office hours are on Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. or any day of the week by appointment.
Greenwood said, "We also have our 24/7 hotline that can be called at (203) 384-9559 or someone can call The Center for Women and Families at (203) 334-6154 or visit our website at cwfefc.org to view volunteer opportunities, call upon us for a presentation or view the programs we offer. The Candle Light Vigil is free and open to the public."
For information, call Stephanie Stacy, community education coordinator, at (203) 334-6154.
