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St. Jude House Hosts 24th Annual Candlelight Vigil

September 13, 2019 - Corporate

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The community is invited to honor victims of domestic violence and celebrate survivors

Crown Point, September 13, 2019:  St. Jude House will host its 24th Annual Candlelight Vigil on Tuesday, October 1, starting with a silent walk at 5:45 p.m. from the eastside lawn (Main Street) of the Crown Point Courthouse Square and ending with a 6 p.m. program held at Bulldog Park. The vigil is held to honor and remember all those whose lives have been lost or impacted as a result of domestic violence, in addition to celebrating and supporting domestic violence survivors. This event marks the beginning of October’s National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“Our vigil is a peaceful and important way our community draws attention to a serious public health problem that impacts millions of people,” said Carol Highsmith, chairman of the St. Jude House Board of Directors. “Our event brings everyone together to remove the stigma surrounding domestic violence while remembering the lives lost in Northwest Indiana.”

According to St. Jude House Executive Director Ryan Elinkowski, the term domestic violence goes beyond physical abuse. It includes yelling, stalking, manipulation, coercion, threats, and isolation. There are so many variants which is why education and awareness programs are essential.

“We have a lot of resources to assist people who find themselves in a domestic violence situation. From providing housing, to our financial empowerment programming and support groups for the entire family, we want to help create safe, stable communities where everyone can thrive,” he said.

Participants are encouraged to start gathering at 5:30 p.m., the walk to Bulldog Park will begin at 5:45 p.m., and at 6 p.m. there will be guest speakers, music and refreshments. The Clothesline Project, a display of shirts with graphic messages and illustrations designed by women survivors of domestic violence, will also be on display.

For more information, please call 1-219-662-7066.