News

As the COVID-19 spreads we are being advised to practice social distancing, stay at home as much as possible and to observe curfew. For most of us our homes are the safest places to be in right now, however for survivors of domestic violence their homes are the most dangerous.

The isolation, unemployment, financial stress and spending a lot of time under the same roof as the abuser, makes the survivors even more vulnerable. Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in a relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Isolation from family and friends is one of the tactics used by the perpetrator.

It is very important especially at this time, to have a safety plan in place: pack a bag with important documents, change of clothes and essential medication. Have our 24/7 crisis line number on a speed dial #943-2422. Ask your family member or a friend to check on you regularly via phone, email, text message and have a code word ready, so they know that even if you are saying that everything is fine, by using this special word you are asking them for help – they can call 911 for you.

Also, if you are not the victim but you suspect that your neighbor or friend is being abused, please call us or call 911. If you choose to, you can remain anonymous – all we need is the address of where the abuse is taking place. Don’t contribute to domestic violence by ignoring it and being silent.

Despite the current situation, we are here for you:

• Our 24/7 crisis line is fully operational #943-CICC (2422)
• Our Safe Shelter is open and functioning as usual
• In the event that we cannot offer you a bed in our shelter, we will do everything we can to find an alternative accommodation for you
• Although Estella’s Place, our walk-in office has been closed until further notice, you can contact our CICC Coordinator from Monday-Friday between 10am – 6pm by dialing #949-0366 ext. 3
• Kids Helpline’s hours #649-KIDS (5437) has been extended to Monday-Friday from 10am – 6pm 

There is NO excuse for domestic abuse!