Topeka ? A Kansas coalition is joining 30 advocacy groups around the state to observe National Stalking Awareness Month during January.

The Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence says there were 820 reported incidents of stalking in Kansas during 2009, with more than 4,700 protection from stalking orders filed in state courts.

Executive director Joyce Grover says the coalition believes there are countless other victims of stalking who are reluctant to seek help.

The coalition is promoting awareness of a toll-free crisis line — 888-363-2287 — for survivors of stalking and other types of sexual or domestic abuse to receive assistance.