Hope Harbor Bike Rally raises awareness for domestic violence

SHALLOTTE, NC (WWAY) — The 4th annual Hope Harbor Bike Rally was held yesterday to help raise awareness for domestic violence victims in the area.

The rally was started to raise money to help victims of domestic violence pay for legal fees and ensure they stay safe. Victim advocate, Donna Varnum, said many victims don’t have the means to pay for their own protection before they get put into the system.

“Usually when a victim comes to court they don’t have the means for attorneys because they’re not allowed to work, they’re not allowed to leave home. So when it comes time to come to court they’re facing their abuser by themselves. And the abuser is usually the one with the money so he’s allowed to get an attorney,” said Varnum.

The rally was the kick off to Domestic Violence Awareness Month which is in October.