Rainbow House in Oconto which serves all of Oconto County, is observing Domestic Awareness Month this October.

Jessica Honish, who along with Nicole Vincent direct the Oconto office, said the observance is appropriate since Rainbow House so far has seen its caseload expand to a record pace.

She recently told members of the Oconto Kiwanis Club that thru the first nine months of this year, the office has investigated 77 county cases.

Rainbow House serves not just Oconto County, but also Marinette County and Menominee County, Mich.

Honish also said that its shelter, located in Marinette, is at capacity.

Staff members here provide counseling, some financial aid and even shelter when needed.

It operates largely thru grants. Because of additional funding, she said both she and Nicole Vincent are allowed to work full-time at 40 hours a week.

In response to a question, she said a sizeable number of domestic abuse complaintants have been victims as many as six or seven times. Though the vast majority are women, she noted there are a few men, and their cases are quite serious.

The shelter in Marinette always is pleased to accept donations. One special need at present, she said, is furniture which is in good condition. Both Jessica and Nicole also often accompany victims to court for cases in which they are involved.

The county’s growing population and an increased awareness of services offered by Rainbow House have been attributed to the ever increasing caseload plus the declining economy.

She praised the cooperation she and Nicole receive from law enforcement agencies and court officials.