From 2003 through 2010, at least 962 Georgians lost their lives due to domestic violence. In 2010, more than 71,000 crisis calls were placed to Georgia's certified domestic violence agencies.

 

Because of these statistics and concerns about the impact of domestic violence, the Georgia House of Representatives charged the Georgia Commission on Family Violence with developing a comprehensive plan for ending family violence in the state. Representatives from more than 20 agencies, including members of all three branches of government, spent 18 months crafting the plan. On Jan. 30, the House officially commended the commission's efforts in House Resolution 113.

 

"Violence in Georgia homes among family members accounts for many serious injuries, deaths and extensive physical and emotional damage to children and adults. Family violence knows no economic or social barriers," the resolution said. "The costs of family violence include misery and trauma for individuals and families and increased government spending for police services, criminal prosecutions, incarcerations, court personnel, foster care, public assistance and juvenile corrections."

 

The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) was one of the agencies leading the charge to protect lives as a part of the commission. Lisa Dawson, director of injury prevention at DPH, participated in the commission's strategic planning committee.

 

Dawson recently gave a presentation to the committee about the difficulty of securing homicide statistics in Georgia, noting that approximately 1 million women in Georgia may experience abuse. She said the strategic plan is important in determining the commission's agenda and the actions it will take to end family violence.

 

"We need to know where we're headed. Everyone needs to paddle in the same direction. We have to determine goals and have everyone work toward the goals," Dawson said.

 

If you or someone you know is confronting domestic violence, there are community and statewide resources available for help. Call 1-800-33-HAVEN, a toll-free, 24-hour hotline for confidential help and resources.

 

-Story by Sandra Roberts, DPH Communications