The YWCA Northcentral PA is opening a domestic violence support group to the public. The first meeting was Wednesday, Nov. 1 in the boardroom at the YWCA, 815 W. Fourth St.

They will meet at the same time and place on the first and third Wednesday of each month.

It is a time for victims and survivors to come together to express themselves, share their stories and receive the tools they need to protect themselves in their relationship, said Deb Griffin, Wise Options advocate.

“We have lessons planned that include discussions about red flags; domestic violence can manifest itself in a multitude of ways,” Nina Blair, Liberty House case manager, said. “It can be physical, emotional, psychological and financial abuse, no one should suffer alone.”

She and Griffin will be sharing important information to the victims such as how to create a safety plan and how they can be as safe as possible while in that relationship. Even if group participants are not ready to leave their relationship, they can still take the knowledge provided and use it when they are ready to take that step.

Survivors can share their experiences with victims to show them it is possible to lead a positive life free from violence.

In past groups, the participants were successful in exiting their relationship whether that meant relocating or helping them move on emotionally, said Blair.

If you or a loved one is in crisis now, please call our confidential 24/7 hotline at 1-800-326-8483.
For more information about the support group, contact Griffin or Blair at the 570-322-4637.