On Wednesday, Oct. 12, County Mayor Mark Ward announced that Benton County will recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the county.
At the County Commission meeting on Monday, Oct. 17, Ward presented a framed proclamation to WRAP Advocate Niki Simko to honor the work done by WRAP (Wo/Men’s Resource Assistance Program) on behalf of families coping with domestic violence in this area.
“I am proud of the job that WRAP and other organizations do in advocating for and assisting survivors of domestic violence in Benton County,” said Ward. “I am humbled by the outstanding work of Advocate Niki Simko and WRAP and am proud to have the opportunity officially to recognize this important month in our community.”
Ward noted that families are an important and stabilizing factor in our society. Abuse of a family member can have a long-term damaging impact on survivors and their children. It also negatively impacts family, friends, and the community at large, as domestic violence shatters and poisons the structure of the family and is a major factor in the perpetuation of many of the social ills that we face today.
“I am so honored tonight to have received this Domestic Violence Awareness Month proclamation from Mayor Ward at the County Commission meeting. I appreciate the opportunity speak about WRAP and to thank our county officials for their continued support,” said Simko. “Thank you Mayor Ward and Benton County for recognizing WRAP and those we serve.”
