Survivors, supporters and the community all joined together in the fight to end domestic violence in Huntingdon County for the fifth annual Walk to End Violence.

“It impacts literally everybody…whether you’re experiencing it first hand, you’re a survivor yourself…everybody knows somebody that’s experienced domestic violence in their lifetime,” Assistant Executive Director Nicole Houck said.

Huntingdon House has a 24-hour hotline service that anyone can reach them through. They also provide help with emergency shelter, counseling, protections from abuse orders and even fostering pets.

“We provide vital services, we work from an empowerment perspective. We work with survivors on their own goals and support them in that,” Executive Director Jean Collins said.

A kid friendly environment helped provide a fun time with family and friends despite the sombering topic.

Houck and Collins both agree there is one thing that everyone can do to put a stop to the violence.

“There are a lot of myths out there that people have been taught. We’ve all been taught them. And for a lot of us, if not most of us, unlearning myths is just as important as learning how we’re going to stop this violence,” Collins said.  

Overall, Huntington House wants to let survivors know they are there for them.

“This work is meaningful to me. I don’t want anybody to ever have to experience those things. And i want people to know if they need something, we’re here,” Houck said.

Survivors also shared their stories and encouraged others to reach out.

To reach Huntingdon House, their number is (814)643-2801.