What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence doesn’t always look the same. It can include offenses of battery, assault, stalking, criminal damage to property, unlawful restraint, or criminal trespass between past or present spouses, parents, stepparents, foster parents of children, and people that are living or formerly lived in the same household. It often includes physical, emotional, financial control, and isolation. Domestic Violence can be referred to as DV, family violence, intimate partner violence, and even stalking. Two constants throughout all are the pattern of power and control and escalation of abuse that can leave survivors feeling trapped and uncertain about where to turn for help.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is a time to honor survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and renew our commitment to ending abuse in all its forms. Throughout the month, we shine a light on the realities of domestic violence and its impact on individuals, families, and our community. And, we work to replace silence and stigma with understanding and hope. DVAM also serves as a reminder of the power of connection: when our community stands together, we create safety, support, and the possibility of healing for survivors. Awareness is the first step toward change, and every conversation, shared resource, and act of compassion helps build a future free from violence.

On Friday October 10^th, 2025, Cherokee County Domestic Violence Task Force hosted the 2025 Domestic Violence Candlelight Vigil in Ball Ground,Ga. The Vigil was hosted as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month to remember those who have been lost to domestic violence and in support of all survivors within our community.

Cherokee County Domestic Violence Statistics

• 3,439 Domestic Violence 911 calls in Cherokee County
• 2,642 Hotline calls made to CFVC
• 3,833 Shelter bed nights provided by CFVC
• 92 Women and children sheltered by CFVC
• 137 Temporary Protective Orders filed by CFVC
• 126 Domestic violence deaths in Georgia
• 1 Victim killed in Cherokee County

What is Cherokee Family Violence Center?

Cherokee Family Violence Center (CFVC) has worked to support survivors in Cherokee County and across Georgia for nearly 40 years through a commitment to enhance safety, empower domestic violence survivors, and advocate for zero violence since 1986. CFVC consists of several teams that help meet the needs of survivors in the community, including:

• Emergency Shelter– Provides emergency shelter for survivors urgently seeking a safe haven, or for survivors taking steps towards securing permanent, safe housing.
• Legal Services– A team of advocates dedicated to assisting survivors seeking protective orders by helping navigate the legal system, engage in safety planning, and providing court advocacy.
• Multicultural Program– Created to ensure residents of Cherokee County had equal access to help no matter their language, the Multicultural Program was created to provide immigrant survivors of domestic violence with culturally responsive services. In 2014, CFVC’s shelter staff began answering Georgia’s 24 hour state wide Spanish crisis hotline. 
• Transitional Housing– A 72 unit, income based apartment complex available for families that have experienced domestic violence. As one of the nations largest transitional housing units in the nation, it is equipped with on-site sources and community amenities.

How to Get Involved

Ending domestic violence requires educating yourself and the community about signs of domestic violence. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:

1. Educate yourself and others. 

   Visit CFVC’s FAQ page to learn the signs of abuse and resources available.

2. Donate. 

   Your donations provide shelter, counseling, and hope for survivors.

3. Follow us.

   Follow CFVC’s social media channels  on Facebook and Instagram. You never know who in your circle may need to hear how to get help. 

4. Contact Us. You can always contact our Outreach Coordinator at [email protected] to discuss how you can support CFVC all year long.

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, please call CFVC’s 24/7 crisis line at 770-479-1703. You are not alone. Help is here