CSPD raising awareness and resources for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) was launched nationwide in October 1987 to connect and unite individuals and organizations working on domestic violence issues, while also raising awareness for those issues. Over the past 30+ years, good progress has been made, and the continuing mission of the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) is to continue to raise awareness and better support domestic violence victims and survivors, hold abusers accountable, and create and update legislation to further those goals.

Regardless of gender, age, or background, domestic violence affects over 10 million people annually in the United States. In Colorado Springs, each year, hundreds of thousands of people are estimated to be impacted by domestic violence. However, that estimate doesn't account for the number of incidents that go unreported due to stigma and fear. By raising awareness, we can help break the cycle of silence, offer hope to those who feel alone, and stand with survivors on their journey toward healing and safety.

You can support local survivors of domestic violence by donating used or broken cell phones to CSPD's Phone It Forward Program. In partnership with 911 Cell Phone Bank, donated phones are securely wiped, repaired, or recycled, and then given to survivors of domestic violence at no cost, serving as a lifeline that connects them to critical services and support. Phone it Forward drop boxes are located in the lobbies of the Police Operations Center and all CSPD substations across Colorado Springs.

The Colorado Springs Police Department's Domestic Violence Unit and Victim Advocate Unit remain dedicated to investigating cases and supporting victims, working closely with local organizations like TESSA and the 4th Judicial District Attorney's Office.

We want to remind our community that you are not alone. If you have experienced sexual assault or intimate partner violence, it is not your fault. If you've been a victim of domestic violence, please contact us at 719-444-7000. Please join CSPD, local, state, and national SAAM campaigns to honor the voices and experiences of victims and survivors.