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June Lunch & Learn focuses on the role of law enforcement in domestic abuse cases

Jewish Family & Children’s Service and NA’AMAT USA, Pittsburgh Council will co-sponsor an upcoming Lunch & Learn with members of the Jewish Domestic Abuse Task Force on Wednesday, June 12th from Noon – 1 p.m. at the Labor Zionist Educational Center, 6328 Forbes Avenue in Squirrel Hill.

Deputy District Attorney David L. Spurgeon will speak on the topic of domestic abuse and the role of law enforcement. Spurgeon will engage attendees in a conversation focusing on what makes domestic violence cases different from other cases, understanding the dynamics of domestic violence cases and how law enforcement plays a role.

“It’s important to realize that while people are functioning in society, by going to work every day and going out in the community, they can still be victims of domestic violence,” Spurgeon said. “It can be a hidden problem because of the associated stigma, and this is helping to make an impact on victims and the greater community.”

It takes courage for victims of domestic abuse to seek help, especially when there continue to be misconceptions about its prevalence in our community. JF&CS seeks to address this issue by partnering with other organizations in providing Lunch & Learns that inform the public about issues related to domestic abuse and resources within the Jewish and general communities. At JF&CS, we hope to break the cycle of violence by giving victims the help and supportive services they need, and by working to stop violence before it starts through education and promotion of healthy relationships.

There is no easy solution to stopping the cycle of domestic violence in our communities, but together we can reach out and encourage those who are struggling to take the first step and seek help. We also know that a victim of domestic abuse typically cannot access financial resources without the knowledge of their abuser, so we provide a limited number of free counseling sessions for victims through Squirrel Hill Psychological Services.

The June 12th Lunch & Learn is free and open to the public. Participants are asked to bring their lunch; drinks and snacks will be provided. For more information or to make an optional reservation, please contact Bari Benjamin at 412-521-3800 or Dee Selekman at 412-521-5253.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please call JF&CS at 412-422-7200 and ask for therapist Bari Benjamin. All calls are confidential. If you are in an immediate crisis situation, call 9-1-1 or the Women’s Center and Shelter of Pittsburgh at their 24 Hour Hotline at (412) 687-8005 or toll-free at (877) 338-8255.

Domestic violence and abuse are concerns that require community-wide knowledge and involvement to help support victims and end the cycle. Please forward this email to anyone you think may benefit from learning more about services and resources for victims of domestic abuse or educational opportunities.

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