Whiteman Family Advocacy Program battles domestic abuse

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Torey Griffith
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  October is Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, and the Whiteman Family Advocacy Program is spear-heading a campaign to raise awareness on base, as well as the local community. 

Currently, the FAP here is sponsoring a "Supplies for Survival" drive now through Oct. 23. The drive, which will benefit the Survival Adult Abuse Center, a local shelter for battered families, is being conducted in each squadron, and each First Sergeant  has a list of needed items.

The Survival Adult Abuse Center sheltered 481 women and children out of approximately 550 reported cases of domestic abuse last year, and will greatly benefit from the kindness of every Whiteman Airman. 

Additionally, Jeannine Johnson, Whiteman's Family Advocacy Program point of contact, will run an education/information booth in the Commissary, Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to answer any questions regarding domestic abuse. 

"I will have information on positive prevention resources such as couple communication seminars, prevention therapy, and how to disagree successfully," Ms. Johnson said. "I will also have information on signs and symptoms of domestic violence, and where to get help." 

There are a multitude of services on base to assist couples and families through all the difficulties that may come along the way in life. 

"We have the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment  program to assist people with alcohol issues, men's anger group (therapy) and an anger management class," Ms. Johnson said. 

While some may be apprehensive about calling out for help, fearing their careers may suffer, the truth is, "Air Force wide, 98 percent of people with a substantiated case of domestic violence go on to have successful Air Force careers," according to Ms. Johnson. 

Just as those who are victims of domestic abuse are encouraged to speak out, those who suspect or witness domestic abuse should not remain silent. 

"AFI 40-301 states that all active duty and civilians who suspect domestic violence, will report it to family advocacy," said Ms. Johnson. 

The Family Advocacy Program POC can be reached at the Medical Group, 687-4341.  Office hours are from 8a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

"We have licensed clinical social workers who provide preventive therapy, as well as rehabilitative therapy," she said. "In case of emergencies, call Security Forces on base or local police off-base."