October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, but what many people may not realize is LGBTQ+ couples can have a higher rate of abuse than heterosexual ones.

That's why the Loft LGBTQ+ Center in White Plains has a domestic violence support program called Rebuilding Rainbows.

They are not only helping those in hurtful romantic relationships, but also those with family abuse, like unsupportive parents.

Shepard Verbas, who heads the program, says they've seen an uptick in people coming for help during the pandemic.

"It's already not something that everybody comes out and says, 'I'm a survivor,' but when you're an LGBTQ+ person and you feel like there aren't any resources out there for you, and you feel like the resources that are there might not be supportive of you, it is even more challenging," says Verbas.

The program offers peer counseling virtually and in-person, as well as resources such as housing if a survivor needs an escape.

To get connected to Rebuilding Rainbows, contact shepard@loftgaycenter.org or call the help line at 914-948-2932 x13