October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to recognize the impact of domestic violence on families and to reaffirm our community’s commitment to safety, support, and healing.
At Lucas County Children Services (LCCS), domestic violence remains one of the leading reasons families need ongoing child welfare support. Currently, 26% of cases opened for ongoing services involve domestic violence. Even more concerning is the growing severity of these situations in recent years.
Because of the complex and deeply personal nature of domestic violence—and its impact on children—LCCS formed and leads the Domestic Violence Multi-Disciplinary Team (DV-MDT).
This team meets twice a month and brings together professionals from across the community, including domestic violence advocates, law enforcement, mental health providers, the courts, and other specialists. Working as one coordinated team, they review cases, share insights, and ensure families receive the right combination of services to stop the violence and promote long-term safety and stability.
Cassandra Adams, Assistant Manager of LCCS’s Assessment Department, has represented the agency at DV-MDT meetings for several years.
“We often see families who are struggling with the ongoing effects of domestic violence,” Adams shares. “By working together across agencies, we can reach families from many directions—offering support, safety planning, and hope. Every family’s situation is unique, so safety can look different for each one. Our shared goal is always to help children and families find stability and a path toward healing.”
Many families affected by domestic violence are unaware of the wide range of resources available in Lucas County, including long- and short-term housing, counseling, support groups, and nonprofit programs focused on recovery and prevention.
LCCS also partners with the YWCA to strengthen community collaboration and ensure that children and families experiencing domestic violence have access to immediate and ongoing support. The YWCA provides domestic violence victim advocacy, education, and a 24-hour hotline for those in need.
Domestic violence affects every part of our community, but through compassion, collaboration, and awareness, we can help families break the cycle of abuse and build safer, healthier futures for their children.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact the YWCA 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline at (419) 241-7386.
If you are concerned about the abuse or neglect of a child, please call the Lucas County Children Services Abuse Hotline at 419-213-CARE (419-213-2273). Your call could make a difference in a child’s life.
Together, we can make a difference.