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Dozens march in Charlottetown in support of Family Violence Prevention Week

Dozens of people walked in downtown Charlottetown on Wednesday to help raise awareness about domestic violence.

'Times of high family stress can make situations very volatile'

CBC News ·
People gather at Rochford Square during Family Violence Prevention Week.
People gathered at Rochford Square in Charlottetown before marching downtown. (Kirk Pennell/CBC)

Dozens of people walked in downtown Charlottetown on Wednesday in support of Family Violence Prevention Week.

It was one of a handful of walks this week in communities across P.E.I.

Danya O'Malley, executive director of Family Violence Prevention Services for P.E.I., said the week helps keep the issue top of mind.

"Of course we try to do things all throughout the year in all different ways," O'Malley said. "But the amount of focused attention that this gets — and it only grows every year — is a really good reminder."

People march during Family Violence Prevention Week.
The walk was one of a handful across the province scheduled for Family Violence Prevention Week. (Kirk Pennell/CBC)

Throughout the week there will be family events, workshops and information sessions raising awareness about domestic violence.

She said it's important to recognize events that can exacerbate violence against loved ones.

Booth set up for Family Violence Prevention Week.
Information was provided about resources and support for victims of family violence. (Kirk Pennell/CBC)

"Cost of living, of course, is increasing dramatically. And similar to the pandemic and other big stressors, these things don't cause abuse, but if you have abuse it causes it to worsen," O'Malley said.

"Times of high family stress can make situations very volatile."

With files from Island Morning

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