This February, Hubbard House is calling on Northeast Florida to take a stand against teen dating violence and support teen survivors in our community.
In recognition of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, Hubbard House is launching a social media campaign, #ItStartsWithBelieving. The theme reflects that, to end teen dating violence in Northeast Florida, teens need to be taken seriously when they express concerns about their relationships. It’s also crucially important that community members believe they can be part of the solution.
“A safer community for teen survivors is a safer community for all of us,” said Hubbard House CEO Dr. Gail Patin. “That’s why we are giving supporters the resources they need to recognize teen dating violence and help teen survivors find safety.”
One in three U.S. teenagers experience physical, sexual or emotional abuse by a dating partner. Though teen dating violence is common, it is often overlooked. In fact, 81% of parents either do not know or do not believe teen dating violence is an issue, according to love is respect, a national anti-teen dating violence advocacy organization. Adults may dismiss teen relationships as “a phase” or “young love that won’t last,” but the relationship is real to the teens involved, and so is the abuse.
There are many ways to get involved with Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month:
· Learn how to identify teen dating violence and support survivors by reading Hubbard House’s blog post.
Hubbard House has robust youth and teen programming, including prevention education and therapeutic support for teen survivors, with parental consent. Hubbard House can help teen survivors address immediate safety needs and learn how to connect with safe adults. Any teen in Duval or Baker county who needs free, confidential support can reach out to Hubbard House through the 24/7 Textline at 904-210-3698 or Hotline at 904-354-3114.
