The Forrest County Board of Supervisors issued a proclamation on domestic violence at the regular meeting on Monday, Oct. 18, 2021.
The proclamation, which cites that 24 people per minute, or 12 million woman and men, are victims of domestic violence every year, condemns domestic violence in all forms and voices support its victims. It also commends individuals, local programs, state coalitions, national organizations and other agencies for “compassion and dedication” to serving victims, raising public awareness and bringing abusers to justice.
“Now therefore be it proclaimed and resolved by the Forrest County Board of Supervisors,” reads the proclamation, “that October is hereby declared to be Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Forrest County.”
Officials from the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office and representatives from local DV organizations were on hand to receive the framed proclamation. Board President David Hogan thanked the men and women for their continued efforts.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence should contact their local law enforcement or a service organization, like the Domestic Abuse Family Shelter, for assistance. A hotline number is also available at 800-649-1092.
Following the proclamation, the supervisors heard from Michael Garrett, executive director of Homes of Hope for Children in Purvis. Hogan said the timing of Garrett’s report was appropriate given that over 15 million children a year are exposed to domestic violence.
Garrett gave a general review of the services provided by HOHFC — four houses that provide long-term care for children from the foster system with an emphasis on preserving sibling groups and a transitional living program for those that graduate. He then requested that the board sponsor a spot in the upcoming Hope Classic Golf Tournament on Nov. 11.
“The specific purpose of this fundraiser is to raise funds educational funds to take care of the boys and girls at Homes of Hope,” Garrett said. “We have two boys that have both lived with us for over 10 years, one is at Mississippi State and one is at Ole Miss. The one at Ole Miss, Daniel, is originally from right here in Forrest County. They are doing well, but they are costing us a lot of money, as are the other kids on campus. This fundraiser is for all of their educational expenses.”
Garrett himself grew up at a children’s home located Monroe, LA, and he said that his experiences are what motivate him to continue pushing for more opportunities for the children at HOHFC.
The Board of Supervisors voted to purchase a “Putting Challenge” sponsorship for $2,500.
To learn more about Homes of Home or the Hope Classic, visit hohfc.org.
