October proclaimed Domestic Violence Awareness Month

City fire trucks and police cars were decorated on Thursday with purple ribbons in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Along with putting stickers on the vehicles, Torri Anderson and Sylvia Porcela, volunteers with Against Abuse, Inc., dropped off cookies to the police and fire stations to show their appreciation to city personnel who respond to domestic violence situations.

“Every year we give out cookies to say thank you for the dignity and respect they show to community members,” Anderson said.

At last week’s regular city council meeting, Mayor Anthony Smith officially proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month for Maricopa.

Domestic violence violates an individual’s privacy, dignity, security and humanity, the proclamation states.

Against Abuse, Inc., is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building and running a shelter for abused women and children. A groundbreaking was recently held for the Maricopa shelter. The exact location is kept confidential for security reasons.