News

Domestic abuse cases continue to rise with the pandemic, valley resources are available

By Madison Weil

October 29, 2021 7:42 PM

Published October 29, 2021 11:58 AM

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Experts say this year it’s especially important to shed light on the issue with studies showing an increase in domestic violence during the pandemic.

News Channel 3’s Madison Weil sat down with the executive directors of three valley organizations dedicated to helping victims of abuse or assault.

“I think right now...domestic violence has become more severe. The abuse has become more impactful,” said Angelina Coe, Executive Director, Shelter from the Storm.

Coe explains her organization, Shelter from the Storm, provides emergency shelter for victims in need.

“The mental and financial abuse has escalated tenfold,” she said.

Coe is a survivor herself. She shared her own experience that led her to help others.

“Everyone said 'he was a great boyfriend.' At first he was sweet...but then it became an issue of stalking,” she said.

Coe says the relationship quickly turned. Her boyfriend sexually assaulted her.

“Back then in the 90s, it wasn’t ok to say my boyfriend raped me. Because ‘he’s your boyfriend,’” she said.

She says in her life the assault was a turning point. Her father helped her out of that abusive relationship.

“The question that he asked me was...do you want to stay in this relationship? And the first thing on my mind was no,” she said.

But she says not everyone has a family lifeline. Her organization today works closely with another valley organization: Partners Against Violence (formerly known as Coachella Valley Sexual Assault Services).

Partners Against Violence has a 24-hour hotline valley victims can call if they need help (hotline numbers listed below).

“Survivors or anybody in their support system can call in for options. We provide advocacy and accompaniment services during the forensic exam,” said Sarah Shook, Program Director, Partners Against Violence.

Safe Family Justice Centers is another local resource — a one stop shop that helps victims from the initial disclosure of abuse through the court process.

“When the pandemic hit, it made it a situation where it wasn’t safe to think about leaving,” said Katie Gilbertson, Executive Director, Safe Family Justice Centers.

All three groups say their cases have increased since the pandemic began. It’s a trend seen nationwide.

According to the National Commission on COVID-19 and Criminal Justice, unemployment, stress, financial insecurity, plus alcohol and drug use have all gone up during COVID — potentially elevating the threat of abuse.

Their unified message to victims: reach out for help.

“You’re not alone. This isn’t your fault. There is help for you,” said Gilbertson.

“We’re here to help victims become survivors...and survivors continue to thrive,” added Coe.

All three organizations say they’re in need of volunteers and donations to help with the increased demand they’re seeing.

SHELTER FROM THE STORM:

Emergency Crisis Domestic Violence Hotline Numbers:

(760) 328-SAFE (7233)

Toll-Free (800) 775-6055

Visit their website: https://www.shelterfromthestorm.com/

PARTNERS AGAINST VIOLENCE:

24-hour hotline: (760) 568-9071

Visit their website: https://www.partnersagainstviolence.org/