Charity Starts at Home: Laura’s House

As we come upon the Holiday Season, gift giving heads up many a to-do list. In the third of a 4-part series of blogs, we at OC Junk Hauling would like to introduce you to a few charities that we interact with daily when we take your unwanted “trash” and recycle or upcycle it into “treasures.” We hope you will consider adding these charities to your lists.

Laura’s House

Ending The Cycle Of Domestic Violence

Adolescent dating abuse is disturbingly common in Orange County; 1 in 4 adolescents (girls and yes, even boys) is in a physically abusive relationship. That means that 1 in 4 of your children’s friends today is being hurt by a partner.

Laura’s House is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of Adolescent Dating Abuse, which is a pattern of behavior used to control and intimidate an adolescent partner. It includes but is not limited to hitting, yelling, threatening, name-calling, and any form of emotional or sexual abuse. It can happen to adolescents at any age, no matter their level of education or economic background. Dating violence can also occur in same-sex relationships, friendships, current or former partners.

To address this widespread issue, Laura’s House offers a free educational program for students: “H.E.A.R.T. – Healthy Emotions & Attitudes in Relationships Today” is an interactive workshop to prevent adolescent dating abuse and get people to see the red flags.

Nearly 80% of girls who have been physically abused in their intimate relationships continue to date their abuser. Why?

Victims of Adolescent Dating Abuse often experience shame and embarrassment. Their self-esteem has been crushed little by little by the abuser. They may also not be prepared for everyone in the social circle to learn about the abuse. There are many reasons why victims don’t “leave” – leaving often doesn’t mean the violence will end.

Donation of money, time, skills: Get Involved

If YOU need help now: call 24 Hours / 7 Days a Week Toll Free Hotline at (866) 498-1511.