The public is invited to a free screening of the film “Waitress” on Friday, Nov. 12 as part of an effort to prevent domestic violence among teens.
The film, which is at 6 p.m. in the Council Chamber at 200 Civic Center, is hosted by the City’s Community of Character Committee and S.A.F.E. (Stop Abuse For Everyone), a Capistrano Valley High School anti-domestic violence club that works with families at Laura’s House and Human Options.
“Waitress,” a PG-13 rated film tells the quirky story of a young woman in a subtly abusive relationship.
“The movie mirrors reality because abuse is sometimes hard to see … and this blindness to domestic violence is what S.A.F.E. seeks to stop,” said S.A.F.E. founding member Nikki Lee.
A brief discussion will follow the film with members of S.A.F.E. and Mission Viejo Police Services.
The need to educate the community is there. According to the Center for Disease Control, teen dating violence is a serious problem in the country. One in 4 adolescents report verbal, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse from a dating partner each year. About 10 percent of students nationwide report being physically hurt by a boyfriend or girlfriend in the past 12 months.
The event is free for adults and teens 14 years of age and older and includes intermission snacks and drinks. Community Service hours will also be available.
For more information, contact Tammy Descoteaux at crimeprevention@cityofmissionviejo.org.
