Howell Co. Commission commits to reducing sexual violence statistics

Howell County Commissioners met with Christos House Domestic Violence Services representatives during a recent regular meeting and declared April Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Howell County. The action is meant to bring attention to the prevalence of sexual assault in the area and nationwide, and remind victims of available legal, medical and mental health recovery resources, including Christos House. The nonprofit organization provides guidance to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The proclamation says, in part, that statistics show 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men will experience some form of sexual violence with physical contact during their lives. The commission reaffirmed their commitment to "reducing sexual violence in Howell County through prevention education, increased awareness and holding perpetrators who commit acts of violence responsible for their actions." The Christos House Hotline number is 800-611-5853, or dial 911 in an emergency. Seated, from left: County Clerk Kelly Waggoner, Northern Commissioner Calvin Wood, Presiding Commissioner Ralph Riggs and Southern Commissioner Billy Sexton. Standing are Christos House Outreach advocate Kenya Cook, left, and shelter advocate Tommie Hagen.