Hope United Survivors Network advocates for women facing intimate partner violence in Gaston County

At the Gaston County Board of Commissioners meeting on April 22, 2025, the urgent issue of intimate partner violence (IPV) took center stage, with a passionate plea from a representative of the Hope United Survivors Network. The organization, dedicated to protecting women and children, highlighted the staggering reality that one in three women in the United States experiences IPV, a public epidemic that affects families, workplaces, and communities.

The representative painted a vivid picture of the devastating impact of IPV, noting that in North Carolina alone, the economic toll exceeded $500 million in 2018. In Gaston County, approximately 3,500 individuals faced IPV, resulting in over $10 million in associated costs. The Hope United Survivors Network plays a critical role in addressing this crisis, providing essential services such as safety planning, crisis response, and legal advocacy.

In a compelling call to action, the representative urged the commissioners to recognize the profound impact of their work and to invest in the future of survivors. With only 10 percent of survivors seeking shelter services, the need for ongoing support and resources is crucial. The message was clear: without sustained funding and support for organizations like Hope United, the safety and well-being of countless women and children in the community are at risk.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the situation lingered, emphasizing the need for immediate action to ensure that vital services continue to save lives in Gaston County.