Most people probably don’t realize how often domestic and sexual assaults happen, but the statistics are staggering. In 2008 alone, 54 individuals died in Missouri from domestic violence attacks, and more than 35,000 total cases were reported to law enforcement officials.

Given that only about half of all domestic incidents are ever reported, those statistics are just the tip of the iceberg. Since October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I wanted to let you to know about a way you can help make a difference in someone’s life who might feel threatened by abuse. It’s called Safe at Home, and it began last year.

Survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, rape and stalking have more than enough worries. Fear that their assailant could easily track them down by finding their home address on a government document or piece of mail should not be one of them. The Safe at Home program offers victims more security as they continue rebuilding their lives. To date, Safe at Home has helped protect more than 530 women, men and children throughout Missouri.

Safe at Home provides participants with a secure and confidential mailing address to use when creating new records with state and local government agencies and the courts. It also can be used to receive first-class, legal and certified mail. It may sound simple, but allowing survivors of abuse to keep their new address confidential and prevent abusers from tracking them down through public records goes a long way toward creating the security they need to get on with their lives.

Safe at Home participants come from all walks of life, because domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking are not problems that discriminate. Victims can be women or men, company executives or factory workers. They can be anyone — any age, any race and any social status. It is important to help all those who are affected.

Shelters, hospitals, schools and law enforcement agencies across the state can provide information and help enroll survivors in the Safe at Home program. If you or someone you know could benefit from Safe at Home, please visit our Web site, www.MoSafeAtHome.com, to find an application assistant in your area.

This month, let’s all work to find more ways to help put a stop to the cycle of violence and save lives.