By Positively Osceola Staff
A crowd gathered Wednesday evening on the steps of St. Cloud City Hall for a moving tribute to victims and survivors of domestic violence during the 1st Annual Candlelight Vigil — “A Light That Remembers.” The event, hosted by Help Now of Osceola in partnership with the Osceola County Domestic Violence Task Force, united community members in remembrance, reflection, and hope as October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to a close. 💜
The ceremony was led by Help Now Executive Director Tammy Douglass, who delivered heartfelt remarks on the importance of community solidarity and ongoing support for survivors. She was joined by St. Cloud Police Chief Douglas Goerke, who reaffirmed the department’s commitment to continue partnering with Help Now and the community in the fight against domestic violence.
“Addressing domestic violence requires compassion, courage, and collaboration,” Chief Goerke shared. “The St. Cloud Police Department remains dedicated to standing with survivors, supporting prevention, and working hand in hand with community partners like Help Now to stop the cycle of abuse.”
Also speaking during the vigil was Christine Montalvo, sister of domestic violence victim Nicole Montalvo, State Representative Paula Stark, Osceola County Domestic Violence Task Force Co-Chairs Andie Hinman and Isabel Johnson, Pastor Luke Anthony of The Altar Church — each sharing powerful messages of courage, remembrance, and prevention.
City leaders Council Members Ken Gilbert and Koby Urban were among those in attendance, standing alongside residents, advocates, and survivors holding candles high in memory of those lost to domestic violence and in support of those still seeking safety and healing.
Help Now of Osceola has long been a cornerstone of support in the community, providing safety, empowerment, and healing for survivors while working to influence lasting social change. The organization operates a 24-hour crisis hotline, an emergency safe shelter, and outreach advocacy centers where survivors and their children can access confidential support and resources.
“If you are living in a domestic abuse situation or in fear for your safety, please reach out,” Douglass urged. “There is help, and there is hope.”
Ann Marie Gibney shared a heartfelt message of perseverance and renewal, reminding everyone that healing begins when survivors are surrounded by understanding, compassion, and community support.
Help Now’s 24-hour hotline can be reached at 407-847-8562, where trained advocates are available at any time to discuss options and connect individuals to life-saving resources.
Join the Community Tonight in Kissimmee
Help Now will close out Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a final community event — The Domestic Violence Awareness Rally and Candlelight Vigil — tonight, October 30 at 6:00 p.m.
The rally will begin at the Osceola County Courthouse in Kissimmee, featuring messages from survivors and community advocates before a walk through downtown Kissimmee that concludes with a candlelight vigil at the Kissimmee Police Department. The evening will honor those who have lost their lives and shine a light of hope for survivors still finding their way to safety.
Join us, wear purple, and bring a sign to show your support to end domestic violence in Osceola County.
For more information, visit HelpNowShelter.org.
