No community is immune to it.

 Even with the beauty of the land and generosity of the people, domestic violence still occurs daily within the bounds of Newton County.

 Sunday The News began a series by writer Amber Pittman about domestic violence specifically within Newton County. She began by looking at emotional abuse that begins in childhood and some of the lasting effects it can have on the child in adulthood especially in reentering abusive relationships. Every April, Child Abuse Newton County places pinwheels in visible places around the county to represent each reported instance of child abuse in the county. Last year more than 1,000 pinwheels were placed.

 Countless other incidents undoubtedly went unreported to authorities.

 This Sunday we will follow one brave woman’s story to her next abusive relationship and highlight symptoms others can look for in someone they suspect is being abused and what local resources are available to them.

 We have found the employees and volunteers of Project ReNeWal, a local organization assisting abused women that has answered thousands of calls for help and sheltered hundreds of women since its inception, has been our best friend in researching this series. They are also the best local resource for those looking to escape from an abusive relationship.

 If you or someone you know needs help, you can call Project ReNeWal’s 24-hour assistance line at (770) 860-1666. Covington and Newton County law enforcement officers also are skilled in dealing with these volatile situations and can be reached at (770) 786-4425 for CPD and (678) 625-1400 for the NCSO. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911.