Now more than ever, we must be vigilant in helping victims of domestic violence. 

During this critical time of the Coronavirus, where victims are required to stay home from work and school and self-isolate, often with their abuser, they may be subject to increased risk of domestic violence. 

Self-isolation and the current "shelter in place" orders, intended to help our community stay healthy, are likely to increase an abuser's stress and anxiety levels. Living in close quarters, not being able to distance at work or socialize with friends and family, increased alcohol consumption, and financial difficulties, can be very stressful and for abusers, can be powerful triggers to release frustration on their partners and children. 

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, millions of women are affected by partner violence every year. According to reports, the Coronavirus quarantine is causing an uptick in these crimes   in China and in the United Kingdom. The New York Postrecently reported that New York's main domestic violence online resource (NYC Hope) had 1240 visitors from March 18 through March 30, an average of 95 visits per day. Victims are on lock-down with no avenue to escape and seek help. Now that their abusive partner is at home, they are under constant supervision. Worse, their children are at greater risk of witnessing abusive behavior and experiencing it themselves. Even if victims wanted to report domestic abuse, it is now much more difficult for them to make a phone call and reach out for help.

Although many states are taking notice and have clarified that shelters and domestic violence service providers are "essential services", concerns for the spread of Coronavirus are making it difficult for services to be performed. Even protective order courts have limited operating hours or are working remotely.

Now more than ever, it is important to support our local shelters and domestic abuse healthcare providers. If you would like to donate to our preferred hero service providers helping to combat domestic abuse, please visit www.genesisshelter.org . The Genesis website has very important advice for preparedness and how to handle escalating situations during this very difficult time. They also have a 24-hour emergency hotline at 214.946.HELP (4357).

More importantly, if you are witness to abuse or you know the persons abused are not able to call for help themselves, report it. Call 911 if you think they are in danger. Unfortunately, child abuse and domestic violence are likely to increase during this time of social isolation and economic hardships. Report child abuse either by phone 1-800-252-5400 or online attxabusehotline.org if you suspect a child may be in danger. In Texas, every adult is a mandatory reporter.

For domestic violence victims in Texas, advocacy screening and protective orders are now available by phone from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 214-653-3528. Temporary protective orders will be extended until physical hearings can be held [copied from Preston Hollow E News (3.25.20)]. For more information and assistance, please see the City of Dallas domestic violence website. 

If you are a victim and are suffering from financial abuse, check out these helpful articles for resources on achieving financial independence from bankrate.com and creditcard.com . 

🚨Let's help stop domestic violence together‼️ 💪🏼