Victims of domestic violence face a tough road to recovery and stability when they are finally able to break free from their abusers and a Piatt County non-profit is highlight what the early stages of that journey look like.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Andrea Kocher at Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County indicates the first thing they want to do for a victim of domestic violence provides them with safety.

Once a victim has secured safety through shelter, Kocher indicates the next step comes in securing safety through an order of protection. She indicates however, there are many, many challenges when it comes to getting an order of protection the public oftentimes is not aware of.

Law enforcement is often involved in these cases and Kocher says Monticello police and Piatt County sheriff's deputies are incredibly helpful and gracious to victims of domestic violence. 

Another issue early on in the process of a victim breaking free from the cycle of abuse is getting them support for the mental and emotional abuse they've endured. Kocher also notes they far too often have to find help for the elderly in elder abuse circumstances. 

Learn more about Willow Tree Missions by visiting willowtreemissions.org or find them on Facebook.