By Hanna Singh
October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and providing critical resources to those facing domestic violence. In Lincoln Parish, several local organizations and community advocates have come together to spread awareness on this issue and point those in need toward resources, offering hope and help.
When someone experiences domestic violence, knowing where to turn for help is vital. For the past 30 years, the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team (DART) in Ruston has been a lifeline for those in crisis, offering a range of services to individuals in need. DART’s outreach program serves Lincoln, Jackson, Union, Claiborne, Bienville, Winn and Grant parishes, ensuring support is accessible across the region.
DART provides a legal advocate who assists with filing protective orders and accompanies clients to court, a 24-hour emergency shelter for those needing immediate refuge, and a child advocate dedicated to helping children affected by domestic violence.
Donna Bannard, child advocate, runs a weekly children’s group with more than 40 participants and organizes special activities for kids during support group meetings every Tuesday evening. Bannard said she also ensures that children facing food insecurity receive pantry packs during school holidays and leads both a Christmas angel program and a school uniform supply drive for children attending Baptist schools.
DART also offers community advocacy by getting out in the community and giving representation, writing columns for the paper, and planning events. They offer literature, information, support regarding domestic violence and network with local schools and universities to spread awareness.
DART hosted its 21 st annual Radiothon last week at Super1 Foods. The day-long event raised both public awareness and funds to support those living in violence and abuse. The event featured an encouraging lineup of speakers, including members of the clergy, students from Louisiana Tech and Grambling State, survivors of domestic violence who bravely shared their stories, and advocates passionately committed to the cause. Through the Radiothon and other community initiatives, DART continues to shine a light on the issue of domestic violence while providing crucial resources to those in need.
Several other events will take place throughout the month, raising awareness and funds for victims of domestic violence.
On Oct. 19 at 11 a.m., the Alpha Chi Omega sorority will host its annual Walk-A-Mile event in collaboration with DART, aiming to raise funds for victims. The walk will kick off at Argent Pavilion at Louisiana Tech University, and participants can join the walk for a $10 registration fee. In addition to the walk, DART will lead several powerful initiatives throughout the month to honor those affected by domestic violence.
For more information about DART, call 318-513-9373.
During the third week of October, red, life-sized silhouettes will be placed in front of the Ruston Civic Center, symbolizing individuals who have lost their lives to domestic violence. These displays serve as a visual reminder of the devastating impact domestic violence has on families and communities.
A candlelight vigil will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 at the Bridge Community Church Downtown Campus. During the vigil, the names of those lost to domestic violence will be read aloud, and prayers will be offered for their families and loved ones. All are welcome to attend.
Finally, on October 25, during Ruston’s Wine Walk, the DART office will celebrate its 30th anniversary by offering refreshments and inviting participants to visit their office. Walkers will have the opportunity to learn more about DART’s services and the vital role the organization plays in supporting victims of domestic violence within the community.
Another valuable resource in the Lincoln Parish community is the Pine Hills Advocacy Center, which has been serving victims of sexual and physical abuse for over 23 years. The center provides critical services to both children and adults who have experienced abuse, working to support survivors and ease the trauma, particularly for child victims of assault. Their services include forensic interviews, counseling, medical exams, and courtroom advocacy, ensuring that survivors have access to the help they need throughout the legal and recovery process. In addition to these direct services, Pine Hills Advocacy Center is committed to prevention education.
They offer programs that spread awareness about the signs of domestic violence and abuse, as well as guidance on how the community can help prevent these crimes. For more information on the services offered, visit their website at Pine Hills Children’s Advocacy Center, visit their office at 117 S. Trenton St. in Ruston, or call 318-255-7273.
Freedom13 in Ruston is another vital organization offering support to individuals facing domestic abuse and homelessness. Its mission is to restore dignity to the lives of those the employees and volunteers serve, providing a pathway to recovery and a fresh start for those in need.
Freedom13 operates a jail ministry in both Lincoln and Ouachita parishes, offering hope and resources to individuals during some of their most vulnerable moments. For women seeking to rebuild their lives, Freedom13 offers residential recovery programs, guiding them toward a stable future. In cases of domestic abuse, the organization directs victims to key resources, including DART, rehab centers, outpatient addiction treatment, recovery services, and mental health support.
Freedom 13 ensures that individuals receive comprehensive care, addressing both the immediate crisis and long-term recovery. A full list of available resources and contacts can be found on their website.
For those looking for more long-term shelter in crisis, Freedom13 Ministries recommends several shelters outside of the Lincoln Parish area. Home Base Texas Baptist Children’s Home provides support and shelter for women and children facing homelessness or in crisis. Turning Point Women’s Shelter in El Dorado, Texas, offers shelter and programs for victims of domestic abuse.
Shelter Coordinator Toni Crutchfield described some of the resources their shelter provides to those in need.
“We have a shelter program for those facing homelessness who qualify,” Crutchfield said. “And for the ones who don’t qualify for that, we offer counseling, legal aid, transportation, clothing, and more.”
As Domestic Violence Awareness Month unfolds, it is important for the community of Ruston to share these crucial resources for those in need. Through community events, educational programs, and direct services, these organizations are dedicated to raising awareness and providing healing to victims. It is essential for the community to come together to support survivors and work towards preventing domestic violence. By spreading awareness and offering resources, the Ruston community can offer support to those facing abuse and ensure that they have a place to turn.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
