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Lit candles honor DV victims, survivors

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BEAVERCREEK — Community members remembered domestic violence victims by lighting candles at a vigil hosted by Family Violence Prevention Center Oct. 7 at The Greene.

“Today is a day of unity. We begin October in a somber way,” FVPC Executive Director Debbie Matheson said. “Some have lost their lives. Some have found hope and the way out. We gather here to remember them.”

The “Pause for Peace” event included Domestic Violence Awareness Month proclamations by elected officials, the presentation of $6,094 to FVPC from the Xenia Chrome Divas, music and a survivor’s story.

“There are survivors among us,” Matheson said. “With each of you sharing your voice, being willing to listen to survivors — you are fighting against the ripple effect of domestic violence, supporting survivors.”

At the end, community members formed a circle and lit purple-covered candles. A bell rang 35 times — once for each of the adults and children seeking security in the safe house right now.

“You’re so brave,” Ashley Foster, after singing, said to the crowd. “We have each other.”

Family Violence Prevention Center hosts “Pause for Peace,” a candlelight vigil at The Greene Town Center Oct. 7.
https://www.xeniagazette.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2019/10/web1_Candles.jpgFamily Violence Prevention Center hosts “Pause for Peace,” a candlelight vigil at The Greene Town Center Oct. 7. Anna Bolton | Greene County News

Ashley Foster sings during the vigil to remember victims and survivors.
https://www.xeniagazette.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2019/10/web1_Singer.jpgAshley Foster sings during the vigil to remember victims and survivors. Anna Bolton | Greene County News

Community members form a circle to light candles and recite a pledge to end domestic violence.
https://www.xeniagazette.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2019/10/web1_Circle.jpgCommunity members form a circle to light candles and recite a pledge to end domestic violence. Anna Bolton | Greene County News

Family Violence Prevention Center hosts “Pause for Peace,” a candlelight vigil at The Greene Town Center Oct. 7.
https://www.xeniagazette.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2019/10/web1_Candles2.jpgFamily Violence Prevention Center hosts “Pause for Peace,” a candlelight vigil at The Greene Town Center Oct. 7. Anna Bolton | Greene County News

A bell rings 35 times to symbolize the 35 adults and children currently seeking security in the FVPC safe house.
https://www.xeniagazette.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2019/10/web1_Bell.jpgA bell rings 35 times to symbolize the 35 adults and children currently seeking security in the FVPC safe house. Anna Bolton | Greene County News

Xenia Chrome Divas present a check to Family Violence Prevention Center.
https://www.xeniagazette.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2019/10/web1_ChromeDivas.jpgXenia Chrome Divas present a check to Family Violence Prevention Center. Anna Bolton | Greene County News

By Anna Bolton

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Get help

If you or someone you know has experienced domestic violence or sexual assault and needs help, call the Family Violence Prevention Center 24 Hour Crisis Hotline: 937-426-2334 or 937-372-4552.