Home NewsRegional/State NewsWhen home becomes the most dangerous place: Louisiana’s crisis of violence 

When home becomes the most dangerous place: Louisiana’s crisis of violence 

by Minden Press-Herald

In Louisiana, the threat of violence often begins where safety should be guaranteed—at home. The  state consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for domestic violence homicides.  Louisiana ranked 5th in the U.S. for the rate of women murdered by men, most often by  intimate partners. 

The statistics are staggering: 

41% of Louisiana adults have experienced sexual harassment or assault in their lifetime,  and 11% have experienced sexual assault specifically. 

One in four girls and one in six boys in Louisiana will be sexually victimized before the  age of 18. 

• From 1999 to 2019, Louisiana’s child death rate from assault was more than twice the  national average, at 4.6 per 100,000 children. 

These numbers are not just data points—they represent lives shattered, families broken, and  communities in crisis. That’s why Project Celebration, Inc. PCI exists: to provide shelter,  advocacy, and hope for survivors across Northwest Louisiana. 

In the heart of Northwest Louisiana, Project Celebration, Inc. (PCI) serves as a beacon of hope for  survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and children experiencing violence. With a  dedicated team and a network of essential services, this nonprofit organization tirelessly works to  provide safety, advocacy, and healing to individuals in need across seven parishes: Bossier, Caddo,  DeSoto, Natchitoches, Red River, Sabine, and Webster. 

Founded on the belief that everyone deserves a life free from violence, PCI operates two domestic  violence shelters—Taylor House in Sabine Parish and the PCI DV Shelter in Caddo Parish— offering refuge for women and children fleeing unsafe situations. In addition to emergency  housing, PCI maintains outreach offices in every parish, including a full-service office located in  Webster Parish, ensuring that non-residential survivors also receive critical support close to home. 

The mission is simple but powerful. We provide a safe space, resources, and unwavering support,  enabling survivors to reclaim their lives with dignity and respect. 

PCI offers a range of services that are completely free and confidential. These include 24-hour  crisis hotlines, legal advocacy, medical support, and trauma-informed counseling. Additionally,  the Child Advocacy Center conducts forensic interviews in a child-friendly environment to assist  in abuse investigations. 

Beyond direct services, PCI is committed to prevention and community education, equipping  Louisiana residents with the knowledge to recognize and address domestic violence and sexual  assault. From awareness campaigns to support groups, PCI fosters a network of healing and  empowerment.

For assistance, survivors can contact PCI’s Administration Office at (318) 256-6242 or reach the  24/7 crisis hotlines: 

• �� Sexual Assault Hotline: (318) 227-7900 

• �� Domestic Violence Hotline: (318) 226-5015

Related Posts