Fresno, Pitt County Address Rising Teen Dating Violence

As February marks Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, various organizations have been actively raising awareness and discussing prevention strategies. In Fresno, the Marjaree Mason Center facilitated a roundtable featuring students and policymakers who highlighted the urgent need for resources and education on healthy relationships, amid alarming statistics showing a significant increase in teen dating violence cases. Lawmakers, such as Assemblyman David Tangipa, emphasized the importance of equipping teens with the knowledge to identify and prevent abusive relationships. Similar initiatives are taking place in Pitt County, where local organizations are addressing the multifaceted nature of dating violence, revealing that a substantial percentage of teens experience some form of abuse. The discussions underline a growing recognition of the necessity for community support and open dialogue to combat teen dating violence effectively. Overall, these efforts aim to foster environments where teens feel safe to seek help and engage in healthy relationships.