What Can A Child Do?

Unfortunately, many children believe they are to blame for the violence in their home. Or, they carry guilt that they did not try to stop the violence. This five-year old boy had both seen and heard his mom being beaten. He drew himself with no feet and no hands. What a helpless feeling. He still worries because he could not do anything to help her....

Cedar Valley Friends of the Family offers children's and women's support groups for victims of domestic violence to assist in their emotional healing from the effects of the abuse.

Domestic Abuse happens even in "nice homes."

This 10 year old child drew herself surrounded by pretty things... decorative wallpaper, curtains on the window, a bird's nest in the tree. However, she took equal effort to show her great sadness. Her huge frown and flood of tears give a clear message.

Very often, persons experiencing domestic abuse think that they are alone in facing this issue. Many have been told by the abuser that no one will care or help them. This is not true. No one deserves to live with abuse.