In support of Child Abuse Prevention Month, Macaroni Kid Williamsburg is delving into the heartbreaking issue of children abused by parental alienation. During April, we will explore the dynamics of parents who alienate their children from their other loving parents. We'll also shine a light on the role of our juvenile court system, “family” law attorneys, and Guardians Ad Litems are far too often implicated in perpetuating this cycle of abuse in our community.
Understanding what child and domestic abuse is, and how it escalates.
Child and DV abusers don't always fit the stereotypical image of an aggressor. Some abusers are charming and manipulative, and it can be difficult for the victim to speak out due to fear of not being believed. Domestic abuse is not limited to physical signs such as bruises, black eyes, dislocated shoulders, or broken bones. Verbal, mental, and psychological abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse, stalking, humiliation, manipulation, threatening, destroying someone's property, or isolation are all forms of abuse. Child and domestic abuse victims are often men, at the mercy of their abusers, at the threat and ultimate totality of losing their children.
It's crucial to realize that abusive relationships tend to escalate over time. What begins as verbal and emotional abuse, including abandonment, can turn into physical violence, such as throwing objects or damaging personal property. While every situation is unique, it's important to seek help if you're experiencing any level of abuse.
Join us this month as we uncover the truth behind these distressing realities that plague young children and their alienated parents.
Child and domestic abuse is devastating and an all too common reality for too many people in our community and beyond.
I can guarantee that every single reader knows someone affected by this tragic reality of our flawed court systems, purportedly designed to protect us and our children. Prepare to be shocked by those who turn a blind eye and have enabled this abuse. Our children are unwitting pawns in a lucrative industry. Have you ever questioned the qualifications and integrity of those entrusted to make decisions that tear families apart and harm innocent children?
When men set boundaries for themselves, and their children and loved ones, to keep them safe from an abuser, some women will not respect the boundaries that have been put in place by the ones that are trying to escape her. In turn, especially in cases where the mother is the abuser, women and children with untreated psychological issues left untreated, false claims of abuse and even sexual abuse are most likely to follow, especially in cases when she is not in a position of power to abuse them any longer. This devastating abuse of children and men has plagued hundreds of thousands of men and the good news is more and more organizations and experts are making a difference. There are finally resources for men too, including The Father's Rights Movement, Institute for Family Studies, and MEN'S RIGHTS. A great place to start for men to feel heard and supported.
Leaving an abusive relationship is far from a straightforward process and can often be dangerous, as the abuser may try to stalk or attack the victim and their loved ones. Understanding that these situations are rarely black and white is essential.
Reach out for support.
Here are 10 resources for victims of child abuse in Williamsburg, Virginia to help you navigate leaving an abusive relationship, rebuild your life, and stay safe.
- Avalon Center: Provides emergency shelter, counseling, support groups, and legal advocacy for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Williamsburg and surrounding areas.
- Website: avaloncenter.org
- Hotline: 757-258-5022
- Child Protective Services (CPS): The Virginia Department of Social Services offers intervention and support for children who are victims of abuse or neglect in Williamsburg.
- Website: dss.virginia.gov
- Phone: 1-800-552-7096
- Williamsburg Police Department - Victim/Witness Assistance Program: Provides support and resources for victims of domestic violence and other crimes, including information on protective orders and court accompaniment.
- Website: williamsburgva.gov/government/department-i-z/police/victim-witness-assistance-program
- Phone: 757-220-6220
- The Arc of Greater Williamsburg: Offers support services and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who may be vulnerable to abuse or neglect.
- Website: thearcgw.org
- Phone: 757-229-3535
- Williamsburg Health Foundation: Provides funding and support to organizations addressing health and social service needs in the Williamsburg area, including those serving victims of domestic violence and child abuse.
- Website: williamsburghealthfoundation.org
- Phone: 757-345-0912
- Williamsburg Domestic Violence Council: A community organization dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence and providing resources and support for victims in Williamsburg.
- Website: williamsburgdvc.org
- Colonial Behavioral Health: Offers mental health services, counseling, and support groups for individuals and families affected by domestic violence and child abuse in the Williamsburg area.
- Website: colonialbh.org
- Phone: 757-220-3200
- Williamsburg-James City County Community Action Agency: Provides assistance with housing, utilities, and other basic needs for individuals and families experiencing domestic violence or child abuse.
- Website: wjccaaa.org
- Phone: 757-229-9332
- Williamsburg Office of Human Services: Offers various support services, including counseling, emergency assistance, and referrals for victims of domestic violence and child abuse in the Williamsburg area.
- Website: williamsburgva.gov/government/department-i-z/human-services
- Phone: 757-220-6161
These resources provide support, advocacy, and assistance for victims of domestic violence and child abuse in Williamsburg and Hampton Roads, ensuring they have access to necessary services and support networks.
Living in Hampton Roads, outside of Williamsburg? Contact:
- The Genieve Shelter: Provides emergency shelter, counseling, support groups, and legal advocacy for victims of domestic violence and their children in the Hampton Roads area.
- Website: thegenieveshelter.org
- Phone: 757-925-4365
- YWCA South Hampton Roads: Offers crisis intervention, emergency shelter, counseling, and support services for victims of domestic violence and their children.
- Website: ywca-shr.org
- Phone: 757-625-4248
- Samaritan House: Provides shelter, counseling, advocacy, and support services for victims of domestic violence and their children.
- Website: samaritanhouseva.org
- 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 757-430-2120
- The Up Center: Offers counseling, support groups, case management, and crisis intervention for victims of domestic violence and child abuse.
- Website: theupcenter.org
- Phone: 757-397-2121
- Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD): Provides medical care, counseling, and support services for children who are victims of abuse or neglect.
- Website: chkd.org
- Phone: 757-668-7000
- H.E.R. Shelter (Help and Emergency Response): Offers emergency shelter, counseling, support groups, and legal advocacy for victims of domestic violence and their children.
- Website: hrshelter.org
- 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 757-251-0144
- The LGBT Life Center: Provides support services, counseling, and resources for LGBTQ individuals who are victims of domestic violence or abuse.
- Website: lgbtlifecenter.org
- Phone: 757-640-0929
- Child Protective Services (CPS): The Virginia Department of Social Services provides intervention and support for children who are victims of abuse or neglect.
- Website: dss.virginia.gov
- Phone: 1-800-552-7096
- Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia: Offers legal assistance and representation for victims of domestic violence seeking protective orders, custody arrangements, and other legal matters.
- Website: laseva.org
- Phone: 757-627-5423
- Virginia Beach Human Services: Provides various support services, including counseling, housing assistance, and referrals for victims of domestic violence and child abuse.
- Website: vbhs.vbgov.com
- Phone: 757-385-3200
These resources offer a range of support services including emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and medical care for victims of domestic violence and child abuse in Virginia.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233); thehotline.org
Join the conversation.
Dads, each of you holds a universe of wisdom in your experiences. The path of parenting is filled with unique challenges and victories, shaping a story only you can tell.
We invite you to share your narrative. Whether it’s a moment of triumph, a lesson learned, or a hurdle overcome, your journey can inspire and resonate with others.
Post anonymously by emailing your publisher. Let’s create a tapestry of parental wisdom, celebrating our shared struggles and successes. Your voice can be a guiding light for others walking a similar path.
This month, we're going to hear Dad's stories. Heartwrenching stories of Fathers and their children who have been alienated by mothers, abused by our corrupt legal system, silver bulleted by “family” attorneys, whose goal should be in the best interest of children and not contributing to the #businessofjuvenillecourts.
#VoicesOfParents #ParentingWisdom #CAPMonth #ShareYourStory #parentalalienationischildabuse
A version of this article was originally published by Brittany Marsh, publisher of Macaroni KID Gardner-Spring Hill-Paola and Macaroni KID SE Kansas City.
