Benelux community to observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month

By Ms. Jessica Marie Ryan (IMCOM Europe)October 5, 2018

Domestic Violence Awareness Month
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- In October, the U.S. Army emphasizes the importance of healthy relationship habits as they join the nation in observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence awareness campaigns will bring awareness to an issue which undermines Army values and has the potential to end careers -- and even lives.

This year's Department of Defense message is "Know the Signs of Healthy Relationships to help prevent domestic abuse." The U.S. Army will focus its efforts on publicizing their resources which help service members and families develop life skills and maintain positive relationships.

During the month, military installations worldwide will execute events that highlight prevention programs and services available to the community. At U.S. Army Garrison Benelux, the following events will be held:

- Hope 5K Walk/Run at Schinnen: Oct. 11 starting at 9 a.m. at the Schinnen Fitness Center.

- ACS Date Night: Oct. 11 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the SHAPE Cinema. There will be a screening of Crazy Rich Asians. Admission is €2 per person.

- Take Back The Night: Oct. 15 starting at 6 p.m. at the SHAPE Track. The event includes a run/walk and lantern release.

- Parent Education Workshop Series -- Hunt the Good Stuff: Oct. 18 starting at noon at Child and Youth Services at JFC Brunssum. Registration is required. To RSVP, call DSN 364-3121/2023 or +31(0)45-526-3121/2023.

- Strike Out! Domestic Violence Bowling Event: Oct. 18 starting at 5 p.m. at the Schinnen Bowling Center.

Attendees are asked to wear purple attire to show that they are taking a stand against domestic violence. More event information can be found in the "Inside the Gate" section and Benelux Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation website at https://benelux.armymwr.com.

The Family Advocacy Program, a program within U.S. Installation Management Command's Army Community Service, is designed to strengthen resiliency and improve quality of life for military families through education and outreach.

Within the program is a domestic abuse victim advocate, or DAVA. The advocates help victims with dealing with crisis response, understanding reporting options and even obtaining military and civilian protective orders. They also accompany victims to medical exams and court protection hearings.

Even though these services like these exist, ACS professionals aim to educate the community on practicing good communication skills so their relationship troubles do not escalate to violent behavior.

Domestic violence is never okay. If you or someone you know needs help, please call ACS at DSN 366-6824 or +32 (0)6532-6824 (SHAPE/Chièvres), DSN 360-7500 or +31 (0)464-437500 (Schinnen) or DSN 368-9783 or +32 (0)2-717-9783 (Brussels).

If you need immediate assistance, please contact the

host nation police at 112 or call the military police:

- Brussels: DSN 368-9769 or +32(0)27-179769

- Chièvres: DSN 361-5301 or +32(0)68-275301

- Schinnen: DSN 597-4555 or +31(0)45-534-0555

- JFC Brunssum International Military Police: DSN 606-244-3200/2616 or +31(0)45-5263200/2616

- SHAPE International Military Police: DSN 423-3333 or +32(0)65-443333

Related Links:

U.S. Army Europe

U.S. Army Garrison Benelux

USAG Benelux Facebook

U.S. Army Installation Management Command