The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will display materials provided by Maine nonprofit Finding Our Voices at all Maine BMV branches. Finding Our Voices, based in Camden, provides support to survivors of domestic violence, including financial support, dental care, legal help and peer support.

“We are grateful to Finding Our Voices for approaching us seeking a way to use the steady foot traffic at BMV branches to raise awareness of intimate partner violence,” said Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, in a news release. “Our hope is the increased awareness will encourage someone experiencing abuse in their home, or perhaps a concerned loved one, to reach out for help and support.” 

According to the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence (MCEDV), 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner and reported a related impact. 1 in 10 women and 1 in 50 men have been stalked by an intimate partner in their lifetime. 82% of reported domestic violence is committed against women. 

"With domestic violence once again at the root of about half of all homicides in Maine in our state's latest crime report, it is wonderful for the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to be prioritizing and amplifying this issue," said Patrisha McLean, CEO and founder of Finding Our Voices. "Thank you to Shenna Bellows and all at the department who are driving change in Maine by partnering with Finding Our Voices." 

The messaging to be displayed at BMV’s across Maine continues the Office of the Secretary of State’s ongoing commitment to survivors of intimate partner abuse and women’s issues, according to the news release. Other programs housed within the Secretary of State’s Office include: 

• Maine Permanent Commission on the Status of Women (MePCSW), a government appointed group dedicated to improving opportunities for women and girls housed within the Secretary of State’s Office.
• Address Confidentiality Program, administered by the Secretary of State, which provides an important service to residents of the State of Maine who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. 

“What we hope to achieve with this initiative, as well as with the existing programs, is to raise awareness – and hope," said Secretary Bellows. "If you are experiencing intimate partner violence, you are not alone, and there is help available.” 

State and national resources:

 Maine Statewide Domestic Abuse Hotline: 1-866-834-HELP (4357)

• Maine Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-871-7741
• Maine Mental Health Lifeline: 988
• National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
• National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: 1-800-843-5678 or report.cybertip.org 

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911 or your local police immediately.