Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia rallies to prevent domestic violence [Video]

MARTINSBURG, W. Va. (DC News Now) — A coalition of nonprofits in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia is raising domestic violence awareness.

They hope their efforts will lead to the prevention of abuse in the community as Domestic Violence Awareness Month starts next week.

Victims of domestic violence may not know where to turn or have the courage to seek help.

Melissa Kincheloe with the Eastern Panhandle Empowerment Center explained the challenges.

“It’s an issue that can be really difficult to talk about, especially if you are a victim in trying to seek services. There’s a lot of shame and guilt and confusion,” Kincheloe said.

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Jo Elliott heads Community Alternatives to Violence, a partner with the Empowerment Center, working with those responsible for domestic abuse. The goal? To change their behavior.

“Our two agencies combined make sure that all aspects of domestic violence are addressed within our community as we try to …