The YWCA of Central Alabama held a candlelight vigil for those affected by domestic violence on Tuesday, Oct. 23 in front of the St. Clair County Courthouse in Pell City.

It is estimated that one in four women will experience domestic violence during her lifetime. Last year, the YWCA provided provided 12,929 nights of safety for 235 adults and 185 children in two shelters and responded to 1,764 calls to the Crisis Hotline, guided 3,883 victims through the courts and provided legal services to 410 survivors, taught 2,410 students about healthy dating relationships and delivered domestic violence outreach and training to 3,824 individuals, and delivered safe visitation and exchange services to 192 men, women and children.

In 2016 alone, St. Clair County saw 599 domestic violence offenses, including rapes and assaults. In Alabama, 43 people have been killed as a result of domestic violence.

The YWCA opened ‘Our Place,’ a domestic violence shelter in St. Clair County, and has served approximately 7000 victims since opening their doors in 2009. The YWCA helps provide court advocacy, education and assistance for victims to get help.

If you or someone you know needs help, call the YWCA’s 24-hour Crisis Hotline at 205-322-4878 or the Statewide Crisis Hotline at 800-650-6522.