Their names, their faces and their stories are each unique. They came from a variety of backgrounds, spanning every age, gender and race. Linking the 42 individuals represented by masks hanging in the window of the Ruth’s House Antiques, one common thread ran through each of their lives — each one was cut short by domestic violence.

These masks collectively represent the 42 people who have died in North Carolina thus far in 2018 as a result of domestic violence. Beneath each, the means of their death hangs on a tag, marked with the hashtag #speakmynameNC2018.

Throughout the month of October, Domestic Violence Awareness month is a time for communities to reflect on the impact of domestic violence on individuals, families and communities as a whole, and this week in particular, Ruth’s House is challenging Beaufort County to take action to address domestic violence in our community.

“The Week of Action is one week of focus out of the whole month,” Ruth’s House Director Valerie Kines said. “It’s kind of a concentrated effort. Our biggest event is our candlelight vigil at the courthouse.”

As a part of the National Week of Action, the local domestic violence prevention nonprofit invites the community to take part in a variety of events throughout the week:

• On Wednesday, from 7 to 8 p.m., the nonprofit will host a candlelight vigil at the Beaufort County Courthouse in honor those who have fallen victim to domestic violence. A limited number of candles will be provided, so those who attend may want to bring their own.
• On Thursday, the community is encouraged to wear purple to show their support for survivors of domestic violence.
• Friday evening, The Contemporary Art Exchange will host a special event to support Ruth’s House. From 5 to 8 p.m., local artist Jeff Jakub will offer sketches of those who choose to donate $25 or more to the nonprofit.

From January to September, Ruth’s House has served 100 new clients in Beaufort County. Of those, the nonprofit has provided emergency shelter for 31 individuals — 14 adults and 17 children. The group has fielded 151 hotline calls, assisted with filing 11 domestic violence protection orders and has attended court 12 times to advocate on behalf of their clients.

“D.V. awareness, even though we’re really pushing it for this month, is something we need to be aware of all year round,” Kines said. “That’s why we’re there and why we do what we do. It’s an ongoing need.”

To learn more about Ruth’s House, visit www.ruths-house.org or visit their facebook page at @ruthshouseDV. If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic violence, call the Ruth’s House Helpline at 252-940-0007. To learn more about supporting the organization, call 252-946-0709.