WHEREAS,domestic violence remains a prevalent issue across St. Johns County, the State of Florida, the United States, and the world with implications for both personal and community health and safety; and

WHEREAS, all persons have a basic right to feel safe, especially in their homes, yet more than 2,000 domestic violence-related law enforcement reports were filed and one domestic violence-related homicide happened in St. Johns County last year; and

WHEREAS, children from violent homes are physically abused or seriously neglected at a rate significantly higher than the national average and have greater risks of alcohol and/or drug abuse, juvenile delinquency, cognitive and developmental problems as well as fear, anxiety and guilt; and

WHEREAS, public awareness and education about domestic violence are needed as well as uniform efforts on the part of government, health professionals, law enforcement, religious organizations, educators, and community associations to address domestic violence through prevention, intervention, and treatment for victims and perpetrators; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, by the Board of County Commissioners of St. Johns County, Florida, that the month of October 2025, be designated as

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of County Commissioners of St. Johns County, Florida this 7^th day of October 2025.