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Community Corner

SUNDAY IS ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY

Sunday, June 15 is Elder Abuse Awareness Day world wide. June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month. Many seniors in Suffolk County find themselves isolated and abused – not only physically but also verbally, emotionally, financially and sexually – usually by a family member or someone they know. Whether a father's $300,000 estate is stolen by a son's undue influence or a nephew fakes cancer to extort $11,000 from his aunt, elder abuse is an epidemic. The VIBS Family Violence and Rape Crisis Center has an elder abuse program that offers free confidential and bilingual services in the victim's home or other safe location. VIBS' staff of Social Workers and Advocates provides counseling, safety planning, court accompaniment and linkage to other agenciesto enhance a violence-free environment.If you suspect you are a victim of elder abuse – or know someone who is, call VIBS' 24-hour hotline at (631) 360-3606. VIBS has been a leader in violence prevention for nearly 40 years, serving victims of domestic and sexual violence in Suffolk County.
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Established in 1976, Victims Information Bureau of Suffolk (VIBS) has been a pioneer in the domestic violence and rape crisis movements. Our mission is to assist the survivors of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault; to prevent the incidence of these crimes through education and services; and to raise community awareness of the need for justice and compassion for victims. Because we envision a community free of all forms of abuse, we advocate for societal changes that will eliminate or decrease domestic and sexual violence.Donate by Telephone or Mail: To donate by phone, please call the Development Office at (631) 360-3730. VIBS accepts American Express, Discover, Master Card and VISA credit cards. To mail your donation, please make checks or money orders payable to: Victims Information Bureau of Suffolk, P.O. Box 346, Central Islip, NY 11722.

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