Palmview proclaims February 2025 Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month; Angels of Love outlines outreach

Mayor Ricardo Villareal read a proclamation Feb. 18 declaring February 2025 as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month in the City of Palmview.

Veronica Perez, executive director of the nonprofit Angels of Love, thanked the city for the proclamation and described the organization’s youth-focused programs, including Kind Girls, Girl Power, Distinguished Gentlemen and Expect Respect. Perez told the council that, in Hidalgo County, “at least 1 in 3 teens will experience an abusive relationship before reaching adulthood,” and said more than 75 percent of Texans aged 16 to 24 “are either gonna experience teen dating violence or know someone that does or already has.” Those statistics were presented by Perez as part of her remarks to emphasize the need for education and outreach.

A police representative noted that officers are required by law at every domestic-violence incident — whether involving teens or adults — to distribute brochures listing available resources throughout the county. The council and presenters discussed collaborating with county victim services and local advocates to share resource lists via the city’s website and social media.

Veronica Perez said Angels of Love runs an annual teen dating violence awareness-month art contest for Rio Grande Valley high schools and highlighted other youth outreach and leadership activities. After the remarks, the council invited the group to pose for photographs with city officials.

Mayor Villareal also provided the city’s public phone number for residents seeking information: (956) 432-0300.