October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Supervisor John C. Cook (R- Braddock District) invites area residents to join him to raise awareness of domestic violence and help two local charities, Shelter House and Fairfax CASA.

Domestic violence is the number one cause of injury to women, more than car accidents, muggings and rape combined. Here in Fairfax County domestic violence is the number one cause of homicide. Children too suffer from domestic violence. Even if not subjected to physical violence, children who repeatedly witness domestic violence might suffer permanent emotional injury. Children who suffer from domestic abuse are twice as likely to then abuse their own spouses and children.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 17, 6-9 p.m. There will be food, music and fundraising. Kilroy's Restaurant and Sports Bar, 5250 Port Royal Road, Springfield has volunteered to donate 10 percent of food proceeds to the cause. There will also be raffle items and chances to donate directly.

RSVP: 703-425-9300, HYPERLINK "mailto:Braddock@fairfaxcounty.gov" Braddock@fairfaxcounty.gov, (preferred) fightviolence.eventbrite.com.

Fairfax CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, helps children navigate the aftermath of domestic violence when the juvenile court steps in to provide protection due to abuse or neglect. Fairfax CASA finds and trains ordinary citizens to be the voice in court for these children at such an uncertain time.

Shelter House's domestic violence shelter, Artemis House, is Fairfax County's only emergency shelter for families and individuals fleeing domestic/sexual violence and human trafficking. Artemis House provides intensive case management services, individual and group counseling, employment assistance, and children's programs.