In 1997 the Madison County Domestic Violence Task Force was formed under the direction of Twin City Missions, directly supervised through Phoebe’s Home, a women’s shelter in Bryan, Texas. A representative of Phoebe’s Home gathered with interested persons from our community and began to strive for this group’s goal of community awareness of domestic violence. The group consisted of law enforcement, probation and court representatives, as well as people from the medical profession.
It was from this group that the idea of an advocacy program began. The Madison County Domestic Violence Advocacy Program was formed in 2002 and has been growing steadily, currently consisting of 11 advocates. This group provides victim and family assistance in cases of domestic violence. They work closely with local law enforcement and are oftentimes called to respond to assist police immediately following an assault or confrontation involving family members. Advocates are knowledgeable in services available for such victims and are trained in preparing paperwork for victim services referrals, while lending a shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen. In addition to immediate-need services, advocates also provide assistance to victims who are ready to leave an abusive relationship, but don’t know where to turn. These victims may be experiencing physical and/or emotional abuse. Current laws protect victims of both of these types of abuse though emergency protective orders and by allowing lawenforcement to press charges on their behalf. There are options available for everyone.

The Madison County Domestic Violence Advocacy Program is governed by an Advisory Board. The initial Board was formed with volunteers for the aforementioned Domestic Violence Task Force; however, this Board does not fall under the auspices of Twin City Missions. This Board governs the Advocacy Program and its projects.

Although this program is still in the initial stages, the Madison County Domestic Violence Advocacy Program is progressing rapidly with an increase in volunteer hours, a steady numbers of victim contacts, advocates making victim follow-up contacts, and, inevitably, a need for funding. The Son Shine Center and Madison County Government have stepped forward and providing some basic funds for the continuation of this program. Donations are also accepted and volunteers are welcomed.

Domestic violence is everyone’s business and it will take all of us to break the cycle of violence.