By Molly Ann Howell
Managing Editor
In McKinley County, where geographical vastness and limited rural infrastructure often compound the challenges faced by victims of domestic abuse, Battered Families Services, Inc. continues to stand as a crucial lifeline for survivors in crisis.
Offering all services completely free of charge, the organization provides open, inclusive support to anyone in need, regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or background.
To help survivors rebuild their lives safely, Battered Families Services delivers a comprehensive range of care. Their immediate crisis support features a 24/7 hotline and emergency shelter.
For legal guidance, the team offers court accompaniment, assistance filing orders of protection, and navigation through divorce, child custody, power of attorney, and legal processes. Families and young people benefit from individual, group, and family case management, safety planning, goal setting, resource referrals, and parenting classes.
Additionally, the organization fosters broader community well-being through public outreach, targeted intervention groups for both men and women, and skill-building courses for individuals at the local McKinley County Adult Detention Center preparing to re-enter society.
To meet growing demand, the organization recently relocated to 103 W. Aztec Ave. The expanded facility enables staff to assist more victims comfortably and privately.
Further strengthening its mission, Battered Families Services was recently selected to receive a portion of the federal Office on Violence Against Women’s Transitional Housing Assistance grants. In Fiscal Year 2026, this federal program distributed roughly $48.5 million nationwide to support state, local, and tribal initiatives.
Battered Families Services refers eligible survivors from its ongoing programs for grant funding, then directly assists approved recipients as they transition into independent living and settle into stable housing.
“Domestic violence affects over 90% of women in the world, if not more, and it’s important to acknowledge those incidents and behavioral patterns,” Emily Ellison, Executive Director of Battered Families Services Inc., said in an interview with the Sun.
With October marking Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the organization is hosting two key community events.
First up is the Fourth Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Fun Run on Oct. 17 at the Gallup Sports Complex (925 Park Ave.), where registration opens at 8 am and the run steps off at 9 am.
Then, the organization will host the Domestic Violence Awareness Walk & Candlelight Vigil on Oct. 21 at Courthouse Square. The evening features survivor speakers, music, local food, and resource booths, with registration opening at 4 pm and the walk beginning at 4:30 pm.
The Gallup City Council officially declared October as National Domestic Awareness Month during their Oct. 13 regular meeting. As part of the month of awareness, the Gallup Police Department also released data on their domestic violence calls. Between January and June, they received 449 calls regarding domestic violence.
“Awareness helps prevent abuse by helping people recognize what abuse actually is,” Ellison emphasized. “It educates our community and empowers survivors to know they are not alone.”
Anyone seeking help can visit Battered Families, Inc. at their location, or call them at (505) 722-6389.
