October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month–a time to honor survivors, remember the lives lost, and stand together to break the cycle of abuse. Domestic violence is not an isolated issue; it touches individuals, families, and entire communities. This month calls us to act with urgency: to raise awareness, believe survivors, and work toward a future where safety and healing are possible for all.

The impacts of domestic violence extend far beyond the home. Children who witness abuse carry invisible scars, families are torn apart, and communities feel the strain in schools, workplaces, and local resources. Survivors face overwhelming barriers to safety and healing–from financial insecurity to fear of not being believed. Domestic violence is not a private problem; it is a community crisis, and it requires a united response.

For those in rural areas, the challenges are even greater. Limited access to shelters, child care, transportation, and confidential services can make escaping abuse seem nearly impossible. In small communities where privacy is scarce, survivors often carry the added fear of stigma or exposure. That is why local domestic violence agencies serve as lifelines — offering safety, advocacy, and resources when and where they are needed most. Supporting these agencies ensures that no survivor is left without help, no matter how isolated they may feel.

The statistics make the urgency clear: 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men in the United States experience severe intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Every year, millions of children live in homes where abuse occurs, shaping their health and future. And nearly 20 people every minute are physically abused by an intimate partner — adding up to more than 10 million individuals each year. These numbers are staggering, but they carry an undeniable truth: we cannot look away.

Survivors need us to listen, to believe them, and to stand alongside them in the fight for safety, justice, and healing.

In Fiscal Year 2024-25, the Women’s Rural Advocacy Program (WRAP) provided critical support to 979 individuals across Lincoln, Lyon, Redwood, and Yellow Medicine Counties — including 633 new clients seeking help for the first time. Our advocates answered 2,663 crisis calls, offered 542 nights of safe shelter, and launched our first full year of youth initiatives, reaching hundreds of young people with prevention education, life skills, and leadership opportunities. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to safety, advocacy, and assistance for those impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence, trafficking, and exploitation–ensuring every survivor has access to hope, healing, and the tools to rebuild their future.

This October, WRAP will host its sixth Annual Bids Against Abuse Online Auction, an event dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking. This year’s auction will be paired with an in-person gathering on Oct. 23 in Redwood Falls. Join us for an evening of honoring survivors, remember those we lost, and raising awareness. The evening promises to bring together supporters, advocates, and community members for a shared cause.

Funds raised through the auction play a crucial role in sustaining WRAP’s programs and services for survivors across the region. Each donated item and every bid placed directly help provide resources, advocacy, and hope to those impacted by violence. The online auction format also makes it easy for people from near and far to participate and make a difference.

Community members still have time to get involved. WRAP is encouraging individuals, businesses, and organizations to purchase purple porch lights to raise awareness, and join us at our live event. Every form of support helps ensure the success of the event and extends WRAP’s reach to more survivors in need.

For more information about the Bids Against Abuse Auction, sponsorship opportunities, or how to donate, visit WRAP’s website or follow the organization on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for updates. Together, we can shine a light on hope and healing throughout our communities.

— Becci tenBensel is executive director of Womens Rural Advocacy Programs