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HAWC and United Way Receive $95,000 from Verizon for Teen Dating Violence Prevention Program

SALEM, Mass. – Help for Abused Women and their Children (HAWC) and United Way received a $95,000 grant from the Verizon Foundation. The grant, which comes during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, will support a Teen Dating Violence Prevention program at several North Shore high schools.

“The Teen Dating Violence Prevention program is a partnership between Verizon, United Way, HAWC, and local school systems on the North Shore,” said Peter Thomas, Chief Professional Officer, United Ways of New England. “The goal of the program is to increase the number of students reached with two curricula, Teen Dating Violence Prevention and Teasing and Bullying Prevention, in grades K – 12 in Lynn, Peabody, Hamilton, Wenham, Ipswich, Topsfield and Boxford.”

Verizon has helped to highlight domestic violence awareness nationally, through its investments in service programs, and support for non-profit advocacy organizations and shelters for victims. The goal is to continue to raise awareness, educate people about the causes and effects, and help communities address and prevent domestic violence.

“Verizon is committed to making a positive difference in the areas of domestic violence awareness, prevention, and recovery,” said Patricia Harty, regional director of public affairs for Verizon. “Domestic Violence does not discriminate, touching all parts of society, at all educational and socio-economic levels. It takes partnerships like these that bring together different segments of the community to help build stronger communities.”

“According to a recent Massachusetts Youth Risk Behavior Survey, one in five girls has experienced sexual or physical violence at the hands of a dating partner,” said Vicki Zaya, HAWC Youth Outreach Coordinator. “The Verizon grant will help us build upon the important work with youth done by HAWC. The program helps to dispel myths about dating violence, such as the myths that pushing a dating partner is okay, or that being extremely jealous is a sign of true love. Teens need to be empowered with information that encourages them to make healthy decisions in their dating relationships.”