Citing the rise in domestic violence-related deaths in our state, Governor Deval Patrick recently directed the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to issue a public health advisory on domestic violence, alerting the public and health care providers to pay attention to this pressing health issue. Nationally domestic violence-related deaths have declined, but in Massachusetts the number was nearly three times higher in 2007 than in 2005. So far in 2008 there have been 19 domestic violence homicides and five domestic violence-related suicides for a total of 24 deaths. The Melrose Alliance Against Violence (MAAV) commends Governor Patrick for calling attention to the severity of the problem of domestic violence and applauds his commitment to addressing the issue. In Melrose, community leaders and organizations have worked together for the past 13 years through MAAV to raise public awareness, reach out to victims, and educate and support young people in order to prevent teen dating and domestic violence. The coalition includes representatives from City Hall, the police, schools, clergy, healthcare providers, business community, students and parents. MAAV Director Rebecca Mooney reports that while significant progress has been made, much work remains to be done. According to Mooney, restraining orders on file at the Melrose Police Department have decreased by more than 50% over the past 10 years. “When I first started at MAAV in 1997, there were about 2-3 incidents of domestic violence reported to the police each day. Today the reports average 2-3 per week.” However, Mooney notes, most domestic violence goes unreported. “Fear and shame keeps victims from seeking help. We urge anyone in our community who needs help to call or e-mail us through our web site at www.maav.org. Our services are free and confidential.” Chief of Police Mike Lyle adds “The Melrose Police Department takes domestic violence very seriously. In fact this year we have taken the initiative to promote Officer Pam Daye as our Domestic Violence liaison between the department, MAAV and the community.” Joseph Casey, Superintendent of the Melrose Public Schools, agrees that the community partnership is vital and that “safe homes ensure safe schools.” “MAAV has an excellent reputation statewide for addressing domestic violence, stated Rep. Katherine Clark, “Their work saves lives, and I encourage people who become aware of domestic violence to reach out for help.”