For Immediate Release: 1.3.08

Naples, FL – The Shelter for Abused Women & Children is launching a second Wise Women Support Group starting Thursday, January 17, 2008.

According to Shelter Elder Abuse Response Advocate Vickijo Letchworth, “Up to two million elders are abused, neglected or mistreated by the very individuals who are supposed to care for and protect them – their spouse, partner, child or caregiver. The Wise Women Support Group offers these victims of abuse a way to deal with the multifaceted issues they are dealing with under the oversight of a trained professional.”

The Wise Women Support Groups are one component of the Shelter’s Elder Abuse Response program, providing older victims of neglect, mistreatment and intimate partner abuse access to the support and empowerment needed to rebuild their lives.

Intimate partner violence and abuse of older individuals can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and verbal abuse, or a combination thereof. Moreover, societal norms, stereotypes and stigmas, as well as health issues, such as declining physical or mental capabilities, play a heavy role in how victims are both perceived and treated when they do disclose the abuse or neglect.

“It’s important for these victims to know that they are not alone, that there are people who care and who can help them navigate the various aspects of creating a safe, healthy and violence-free life, no matter what their age,” concludes Letchworth.

Victims of domestic violence can receive help by calling the Shelter for Abused Women & Children’s 24-Hour Crisis Hotline at 239-775-1101, or the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119. (Please call 911 if you are in immediate danger).

For more information about the Shelter for Abused Women & Children’s Wise Women Support Groups, including days, times and locations, please call 239-775-3862, ext. 242.

To learn more about the Shelter, Options Thrift Shop, as well as programs and services, please call 239-775-3862, or visit the Shelter’s website at www.naplesshelter.org.

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The Shelter for Abused Women & Children helps adult and child victims and survivors of domestic violence through safety, intervention and support; educates the public about domestic violence; and advocates for social change against domestic violence. For more information, please contact us at 239-775-3862, or visit us online at: www.naplesshelter.org

Media Contact: Mary Ann T. Green, mgreen@naplesshelter.org, 239-775-3862, ext. 211