This October, the city of Peoria is joining surrounding communities and the Maricopa Association of Governments to recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month and stand with survivors, raise awareness and remind anyone experiencing abuse that help is available.

Throughout Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Peoria City Hall will be illuminated in purple, the nationally recognized color of domestic violence awareness. Mayor Jason Beck and the Peoria City Council will also officially recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month during the Oct. 6 City Council meeting.

Domestic violence and its impact can reach far beyond the person experiencing abuse. It affects individuals, families and entire communities.

Every 44 minutes in Arizona, one or more children witness domestic violence. Nationally, about 1 in 4 women and nearly 1 in 10 men have experienced sexual violence, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime and reported at least one related impact, such as concern for their safety. More than 43 million women and approximately 38 million men have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner during their lifetime.

Here are ways residents can help bring greater awareness to domestic violence this month.

• Purple Thursday on Oct. 15: Wear purple to show your support for survivors and help start conversations about domestic violence.

• Peoria Police domestic violence awareness shirts and patches: Purchase a special awareness shirt for $25 online through Oct. 31 at Peoria PD Domestic Violence Shirts. A percentage of proceeds go to Angels on Patrol, a nonprofit that helps officers assist community members in crisis. Purple patches will also be available for purchase for $10 during regular business hours, Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Peoria Police Department locations: South Station, 8351 W. Cinnabar Ave. and North Station, 23100 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, confidential help and resources are available:
• 211 Arizona: dial 2-1-1 for confidential assistance.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: call 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.
• Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence: visit arizonasurvivors.org.
• Domestic Shelters: visit domesticshelters.org to find local resources.
• Text to 911: If you are in danger and cannot safely make a voice call to 911, text 911 for help.
• For additional information and regional resources, visit azmag.gov/DV.