Des Moines County proclaims October 2026 Domestic Violence Awareness Month; local advocates describe services and events

The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a proclamation declaring October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the county. An advocate identified herself as Bree and introduced Crystal, both of DVIP/RVAP, thanking the board for the proclamation and outlining local support services.

Bree described 24-hour hotlines, court accompaniment, assistance navigating medical exams, and short-term housing options (Journey House for single adults and temporary family space in Lee County). She promoted an Oct. 9 'Shop for Shelter' donation drive at Hy-Vee and Fareway and encouraged survivors and community members to use the organization's website for event details. "Proclamations like these mean a lot to us because we can only stop violence in our communities if we all stand against it together," the advocate said.