The coronavirus pandemic is having an effect on the number of calls made to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Hotline staff report that a growing number of callers say abusers are using COVID-19 as a reason to further isolate victims. Locally, calls to Willow Domestic Violence Center have increased, with victims looking for advice for how to adapt their safety plans. The center has ramped up phone counseling services and is working to address a possible increase for shelter services. Advocates for children are also expressing concerns about how physical distancing could impact children who live in abusive homes.
This hour, our guests discuss how to help victims of all ages. Our guests:
- Meaghan de Chateauvieux, president and CEO of Willow Domestic Violence Center
- Mary Whittier, interim CEO of RESOLVE of Greater Rochester
- Deb Rosen, executive director of Bivona Child Advocacy Center
- Jerri Lynn Sparks, survivor of domestic violence