KILLEEN, Texas — The Killeen Police Department hosted its fourth annual Domestic Violence Awareness Walk at Lions Club Park this Saturday.
The event gathered city officials, local organizations and survivors to raise awareness about domestic violence and the resources available to help.
One in three Texans may experience domestic violence in their lifetime, according to the Killeen Police Department.
Among the attendees at the event was Chicara Willis, a domestic violence survivor who found a way out of her situation with the help of the Killeen Police Department. After escaping an abusive relationship, Willis founded Shine Your Light, Spread the Hope Outreach, an organization dedicated to guiding and helping others.
"I knew I had to get my son out of it. I needed to move forward and understand that, ok, I needed to be around some people who support me, love me, and genuinely care about me. I know that my life and my son's life are supported because he could have taken my life at any time," Willis said. "I just thank God that he did not take my life because he could have, and he was going to take my life. And I thank God that I am a survivor. Now, I understand and can tell women and men that I'm still here and that it's important."
The walk featured speeches from community leaders and survivors, emphasizing the critical role of collective support in addressing domestic violence.
If you or anyone you know is facing domestic violence, don't hesitate to contact your local police department or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.
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