Seeing purple ribbons? Here's why

BERNALILLO — Seeing purple ribbons around Rio Rancho and Bernalillo? That's because October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

On Sept. 21, Haven House, Sandoval County's only emergency domestic violence shelter, led two groups of volunteers who helped put up purple ribbons around Bernalillo and Rio Rancho to bring awareness to domestic violence.

"Thank you for being out here today and supporting our cause. I really appreciate every single one of you," Estella Weitz, executive director at Haven House, said. "This is the first time that we are in Bernalillo ... Sandoval County is united against domestic violence. We have Rio Rancho, Bernalillo, Cuba, Placitas, Corrales, Jemez Pueblo, and I'm hoping to do this every year."

In Rio Rancho, volunteers met at Berger Allstate. In Bernalillo, volunteers met at the 13^th Judicial District Attorney’s Office. Both began their work at 9 a.m. Giving statements in support of the efforts were Rio Rancho Mayor Greg Hull, who read the Domestic Violence Proclamation; 13th Judicial District Attorney Barbara Romo; and District 23 state Rep. Alan Martinez.

"This is one of the major events to raise awareness to domestic violence," Romo said. "There's still a stigma out there that domestic violence is not a 'bad' crime or 'not a big deal;' it is a big deal."

Volunteers walked up and down streets in pairs with ribbon, scissors and tape. Other volunteers staked signs in front of businesses who consented to it beforehand.

"I've gone around to some of the businesses, informed them as to what is taking place. We are going to put some signs in front of the businesses and just bring awareness to the community," volunteer James Baca, an employee with the District Attorney's office, said. Baca serves as a legal assistant in the domestic violence division.

Haven House provides services and shelter to victims of domestic violence. Some of their services include emergency shelter, counseling, crisis intervention, case management, children's services, support groups, legal advocacy, life skill classes and 24/7 support.

"These circumstances are tragic. It's sad when it is somebody that you love, somebody that is part of your family. These things are happening, and a lot of times they have swept it under the rug," Martinez said. "Knowing that this community is coming together and is willing to put in the time ... it gives me hope."

If you need to reach out to Haven House, call 505-896-4869 or visit havenhouseinc.org.

A 24-hour victim help line is available as well at 1-800-526-7157