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By NOAH WORTHAM | Managing Editor

CHELSEA – The Chelsea City Council heard proclamations declaring October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Adopt a Shelter Dog Month during a regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 15.

During the mayor’s report, Mayor Pro Tem Scott Weygand delivered both proclamations to the Council and shared them with those in attendance, including representatives for each respective organization.

“It is crucial to increase public awareness of domestic violence and work to eliminate it through prevention and education,” read the proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Elizabeth Sherrell with Hopes Door Ministry was present at the meeting and addressed the Council and audience on the importance of the issue and shared the work that the nonprofit organization does.

“We provide hands-on assistance to women who reside in shelters, as well as women who are referred to us through churches and other organizations,” Sherrell said. “We’re not an emergency resource. However, we are trained to walk a woman through a safety assessment and to lead her to call immediately if she needs to.”

Sherrell is joined by her daughter, Michelle Sylestine who serves as the organization’s executive director and has degrees in counseling and psychology.

“Our combined education and experience allows us to assist women who come to us from traumatic situations such as domestic violence, even homelessness, addiction, human trafficking and mental and emotional issues,” Sherrell said.

During the mayor’s report, Weygand also shared a proclamation officially declaring October 2024 as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month in recognition of The American Humane Associations Adopt A Dog Month.

“Adopting a dog from a shelter can save a life break the cycle of pet overpopulation and provides the many benefits that come from having a four-legged family member,” read the proclamation. “All dogs regardless of size, age or breed are individuals with their own unique personalities, needs and ideal homes.”

Leah Eagle, who oversees public relations for the Shelby Humane, was present at the meeting and spoke on the various opportunities the organization offers that can help animals in need.

Eagle highlighted that residents can help Shelby Humane and help fight overpopulation issues this month through adopting a pet, volunteering, donation and spaying and neutering pets.

“If you’re interested in any opportunities that we can provide at Shelby Humane for volunteering or donation, you can visit Shelbyhumane.org and all that information is there,” Eagle said.