LOCK HAVEN, Pa. As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Lock Haven University will host a candlelight vigil on Russell Lawn on Wednesday, October 1 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. The vigil is sponsored by LHU Women’s Studies and the HOPE Center (Haven Outreach Program for Empowerment). The event is free and open to the public, but attendees are asked to bring a donation for the Clinton County Women’s Center.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. The NCADV also reports that in Pennsylvania, 64 women were killed as a result of domestic violence in 2006.

The Clinton County Women’s Center was created in 1979 and serves victims of domestic and sexual violence. Last year, the center helped 253 victims of sexual assault and 543 victims of sexual violence.

Suggested donations include canned food, linens (towels and sheets), toiletries, office supplies, women’s pajamas, women’s sweatshirts and sweatpants, or women’s flip-flops. Larger sizes of clothing items are especially needed. Donations of money are also welcome.

SueAnn Schatz, LHU coordinator of women’s studies, spoke of the value of the planned vigil. “I’ve always believes that part of being a feminist is trying to help women in the community,” she said. “A vigil such as this can help women who have been victims of domestic violence heal, and it can make others aware that such violence is happening and needs to be stopped.”

The vigil will include readings and testimonials, and the public will be invited to share their stories. The vigil will conclude with a candlelight walk.