SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

One of the non-profits in KELOLAND helping victims of domestic violence is The Compass Center.

The organization also supports victims of sexual violence.

The need for services at The Compass Center grows year after year.

Executive director Michelle Trent expects the center to help at least 1,000 adults and kids this year.

She says the increases are linked to the growing Sioux Falls area, and silence surrounding the issue.

“We have a very big problem with domestic violence and sexual violence in our state, and it’s not something we want to necessarily celebrate. It’s not a good thing, but the more we ignore it, the bigger the problem grows,” Trent said.

As the organization helps victims, it has its own problem: a funding shortfall.

Part of the problem is linked to a decrease in funding through the federal Victims of Crime Act.

“In 2021 we received about $400,000 in VOCA. In this year we received about $68,000,” Trent said.

The non-profit has set up an emergency operations center at its center to help right the ship.

“If we don’t get necessary funding in place. We will have to make cuts to our staffing, which means cuts to services,” Trent said.

As The Compass Center works on filling the gaps, Trent has a message for people who may need their help.

“Anyone who is hearing this who is a victim, that their story matters, that they shouldn’t refrain from reaching out even hearing this. They’re not a burden. We want them to reach out,” Trent said.

Right now, The Compass Center is raffling off a pair of Taylor Swift concert tickets.

It’s $100 for a raffle ticket.

You must enter by Wednesday.