GREENHORN VALLEY
Statistics at the launch of Anna’s Mission at the United Methodist Women’s meeting Tuesday, September 6, revealed that domestic violence affects most families in one way or another. It can be in many different forms: including emotional, sexual and physical abuse, stalking, and threats of abuse. It can happen in heterosexual or same-sex relationships. An abuser uses intimidating, hurtful words and behaviors to control his or her partner, and the relationship nearly always involves an imbalance of power and control.
The launch of Anna’s Mission is living proof that someone cares about the hidden or often overlooked victims of domestic violence.
The organizers of Anna’s Mission actually began their dream to help victims of domestic violence in 2019 at a weekend retreat, and it has taken time to complete classes and training and get things organized.
Still in the early stages of training and fundraising, the ladies are hoping to expand their faith-based organization to someday offer safe housing, transitional housing, youth programs, a prayer line, support for recovery, and advocacy for domestic violence victims in southeastern Colorado.
The mission statement of Anna’s Mission is listed as: “Those who suffer from Domestic Violence will know that Jesus is there for them with unconditional and endless love. With our help, they will know that through prayer, loving-kindness, mercy, and grace they are part of His kingdom for eternity.”
At this time, board members of Anna’s Mission are working to help spread awareness of domestic violence, how to spot the signs of abuse, and how to start a conversation with someone who may need help but not know how to ask. They are offering literature with suggestions of how to talk to victims and to make sure the abuser does not know the victim is looking for help, as well as preparations to make in case the victim needs to flee.
One of the group’s projects is to provide what they call “Ready-Set-Go Bags” with daily essentials, important papers, medical information and/or medications. These bags can be prepared and then left at a friend’s home to be picked up if the victim has to suddenly flee from home.
Based on the thought that prevention is the key to eliminating domestic violence, Anna’s Mission Board Members are working diligently to get the word out about the cycle of violence and the different phases of abuse, as well as triggers.
They urge anyone who is being harmed or knows of someone who is being harmed to contact the National Domestic Hotline at 800-799-7233, or the 10 to 10 helpline at 877-898-3411.
For more information about Anna’s Mission call 719-733-7353, or email annasmisioninc@gmail.com.
A website at annasmission. com will soon be up and running as well as a Facebook page at annasmissioninc.
Glenda Holcomb, Helen Darrow, and Nette Smith launch Anna's Mission, following several years of planning and red tape.
Photo by Shirley Pigg