Fundraiser at Kilroy’s supports domestic violence victims

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so Braddock District Supervisor John Cook is hosting a fundraiser Oct. 17 at Kilroy’s Restaurant and Sports Bar (5250 Port Royal Road, Springfield), 6-9 p.m., to support two nonprofits that help victims of abuse.

The event will raise funds for Fairfax CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), which help children under the protection of the juvenile court due to abuse or neglect, and Artemis House, the only emergency shelter in Fairfax County for people fleeing domestic or sexual violence and human trafficking.

During the event, Kilroy’s will donate 10 percent of the proceeds from food sales to the two charities. There will also be music and raffles. To RSVP, sign up online.

Domestic violence is the number one cause of injury to women—resulting in more injuries than car accidents, muggings, and rape combined. In Fairfax County, domestic violence is the number-one cause of homicide.

Children are severely affected by domestic violence, even if not physically hurt. Children who repeatedly witness domestic violence often suffer permanent emotional injury, and those who are abused are twice as likely to later abuse their own spouse and children.