The city of Clovis has officially designated October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, aiming to raise community awareness and highlight local resources for survivors.
Nicole Linder, CEO of the Marjaree Mason Center, spoke during the Oct. 6 Clovis City Council meeting, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to helping survivors and honoring those lost to domestic violence.
Her team passed around a photo of Anna Richards and her son. Linder told the council that about 40 minutes after that picture was taken, Richards was shot and killed by her abuser on Oct. 7, 2024.
“Because the Marjaree Mason Center provided classes and therapy, she knew to use a safe word with her 8-year-old son,” Linder said. “It was the last word she spoke. It saved five lives that night.”
Council members and attendees listened in silence as she shared Richards’ story, detailing the life-saving impact of education and intervention.
Linder said this story served as a powerful reminder that domestic violence can happen anywhere. She urged the community to recognize the importance of services that keep people safe and to continue supporting organizations that provide resources for victims.
Councilmember Matt Basgall read the proclamation aloud during the meeting. The declaration recognized the widespread impact of domestic violence, which affects individuals regardless of age, race, religion or economic status, and highlights local efforts to support survivors.
According to the proclamation, more than 600 domestic violence reports were filed with Clovis law enforcement last year.
Fresno County’s Marjaree Mason Center, the region’s only dedicated provider of safe housing and comprehensive support services for survivors, assisted 3,482 adults and children, providing more than 81,000 nights of safe shelter. The center has partnered with the city of Clovis, local police and other community organizations to ensure survivors have access to housing, legal support and other vital services.
According to the Marjaree Mason Center, Fresno has the highest per capita calls to law enforcement for domestic violence in California.
The city of Clovis’ recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month aligns with countywide efforts to raise awareness through education and prevention programs. Residents are encouraged to participate in local events and wear purple throughout October to show support for survivors and advocacy groups.
More information about the Marjaree Mason Center’s programs and services can be found by calling the 24-hour confidential hotline at (559) 233-HELP (4357).
