A local group is helping people in Washington County who suffer from domestic abuse and are welcoming donations. The Washington County Domestic Violence Coalition works to help victims of domestic violence across the county and are starting to plan awareness events for October – domestic violence awareness month. The group welcomes donations and president Brad Koenig explained cell phones can help because they don’t need a contract to dial 911 and help in an emergency situation. He gave an example of a woman last week who contact him asking for a phone to have and hide from an exboyfriend, who will break in and take her phone, so she wanted a back up to call for help.

The coalition’s goal is to have a board member from each of the cities in the county. In October, they plan to have fundraisers, a donation drive and an event with speakers regarding domestic violence and the resources available to help people locally.

Anyone needing help is encouraged to call 1-800-373-1043, a 24 hour crisis phone line.