Breaking the Silence: Standing with Survivors this October

By Denise Durel, President & CEO, United Way Southwest Louisiana

Every October, we pause to shine a light on something that too often happens in the shadows—domestic violence. For many in our community, home is not a place of safety but of fear. Behind closed doors, individuals and families quietly carry pain, uncertainty, and isolation that most of us will never see.

But they are not alone. And we must never let them feel that way.

At United Way Southwest Louisiana, we believe everyone deserves to live in a home filled with safety, dignity, and respect. Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a reminder of why we do what we do—because abuse is not just a private issue, it’s a community issue.

A Hand to Hold in Crisis

Sometimes the first step is the hardest—reaching out for help. That’s why our 211 Helpline is available 24/7. With one simple call, someone in crisis can talk to a real person who listens, cares, and connects them to local shelters, counseling, or even legal aid. Every day, 211 helps people take that brave first step.

Beyond Safety: Building Stability

Escaping violence is just the beginning. Survivors need more than emergency shelter—they need the chance to rebuild. Through our partnerships, we provide help with rent, utilities, and transportation, along with connections to job training and financial resources so survivors can stand on their own again.

Healing the Heart

Domestic violence leaves scars that are not always visible. That’s why United Way invests in programs that offer therapy, peer support groups, and trauma-informed care—because healing the heart is just as important as finding a safe place to stay.

Prevention Through Education

We also know the cycle can be broken. By working in schools, workplaces, and community groups, we talk about healthy relationships, respect, and self-worth. Prevention starts with awareness, and awareness starts with us.

How You Can Help

• If you need help: Call 211 today. You don’t have to face this alone. (or search online here)

• If you want to make a difference: Support United Way SWLA. Your gift helps us provide shelter, counseling, and hope to families right here at home. Click that GIVE HOPE button at the top of this page!

• If you know someone struggling: Share resources, listen without judgment, and remind them they are not alone.

This month, I ask you to open your heart. Think of the mother hiding bruises under her sleeves, the child who pretends everything is fine at school, or the neighbor who seems to have disappeared from community life. They may need a hand, and you could be the one to reach out.

Together, we can replace fear with safety, despair with hope, and silence with a voice that says: you matter, you are worthy, and you are not alone.

With compassion and determination,

Denise Durel
President & CEO
United Way of Southwest Louisiana