Clear Lake proclaims October 2021 Domestic Violence and Breast Cancer Awareness months

Clear Lake — At its Oct. 7 meeting the City Council proclaimed October 2021 as both Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month and heard from local advocates about services and community support.

Mayor Slooton read the Domestic Violence Awareness proclamation, citing recent local enforcement and victim-witness statistics and naming participating agencies including the District Attorney’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office, Lakeport Police Department, Clear Lake Police Department and the Lake Family Resource Center.

Camille, a domestic violence advocate at the Lake Family Resource Center, thanked the city for the proclamation and described the center’s shelter and services, saying the program provides safety, counseling and outreach and that "they're given also, to come into our shelter as well" when asked if men who are victims can access services. A council member asked about follow-up for a referred man who had not received contact after calling the center; Camille confirmed the center offers the same programs for men.

On Breast Cancer Awareness Month, council members noted local fundraising and survivor testimony, encouraged public involvement in awareness and screening, and mentioned local groups participating in walks and fundraising events.