Candlelight Vigil to raise awareness of domestic violence in Taney County

The Crisis Center of Taney County invites the community to join them on Monday, October 5, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., for the 30th Annual Candlelight Vigil, hosted by the Branson Christian Church, 213 S. Commercial St. in Branson. 

The Candlelight Vigil is held each year during October, designated as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Along with honoring courageous survivors and remembering those victims who passed away due to their circumstances, a big purpose of the Candlelight Vigil is to increase awareness in the community, as many people do not realize the serious of the problem; others may be affected by it and need to know they are not alone and that resources are available. 

The Crisis Center of Taney County, which opened in 1990, is the only such shelter in Taney County. In addition to providing safe housing while victims work to reestablish their lives, the Crisis Center also works with local law enforcement agencies to provide temporary emergency shelter when a victim must be quickly removed due to an incident. 

A personal advocate is assigned to each safe housing occupant to help them create a safety plan, set goals and connect them with resources for doing so. Support groups are also held regularly, both for shelter residents and nonresidents. To make this safe space happen, the Center greatly appreciates donations of food, household supplies, kitchenware, linens and hygiene items. Volunteers are also needed, not only as personal advocates with training provided, but also for practical help such as organizing donated clothing and supplies. 

To learn more, call 417-561-5105 or visit The Crisis Center of Taney County on Facebook. If you or someone you know is in a potentially dangerous situation, please be aware of the crisis hotline, 866-379-0074, and the 24-hour emergency text message number, 717-744-TEXT. 

Featured speaker for the Candlelight Vigil will be Lisa Saylor, and refreshments will be served following the Vigil. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to show support and learn more about this valuable resource here in Taney County.