Domestic violence shelters have struggled in the face of the COVID-19 shutdown. Their services are desperately needed. However, congregate living spaces like shelters are at most risk for the spreading of the virus. Combined with escalating domestic violence due to people being shut up together and you have a recipe for disaster.
Ohio officials tried to help a bit by distributing $1 million in grant money to domestic violence shelters. Scioto and Pike County shelters were among those receiving the funds. Each shelter received around $17,000 to help cope with COVID-19.
“While we have been asked to stay at home, sometimes home isn’t the safest place,” Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said. “Thanks to the General Assembly, this money will be used to keep life-saving services available to those who need to escape dangerous environments.”
Mary Ann Peercy from the Southern Ohio Domestic Violence Shelter said they would use the money to pay for:
- Cleaning supplies
- Face masks
- Thermometers
Plus other unexpected expenses brought about by the outbreak. For example, residents and visitors are required to do daily temperature checks. That means the shelter needs a supply of thermometers.
Stay-At-Home A Nightmare For Some
But COVID-19 hasn’t just caused problems because of the extra precautions needed to prevent the spread of the virus. Annette Jenkins, Director of the Pike County Partnership Partnership Against Domestic Violence says Ohio’s stay-at-home order resulted in unintended consequences.
“COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on families experiencing domestic violence. Ramped up stressors can fuel abuse.”
Among the stressors:
- The deluge of mostly negative news and social media
- Threat of job losses
- Social isolation in the home
- An increase in gun and alcohol use.
Jenkins says this has intensified incidents of violence. “Perpetrators are justifying their abusive behavior blaming outside stressors and blaming their partners putting them at greater risk of being abused.”
Jenkins said that during turbulent times, the thought of leaving even an abusive situation can be terrifying. She urged people to be patient with anyone considering making that move.
.”Leaving an abusive relationship can be a dangerous endeavor in the best of times, but during times of global crisis it becomes even more difficult. Therefore, it is important not to pressure someone to leave when they do not feel ready. Instead, let them know you are there for them, that you support them, and that you will be there to help them figure out the best strategies to get through this safely.”
How To Get Help
Many businesses and government offices shut down during the crisis. However, domestic violence shelters are still open and ready to help.
Mary Ann Peercy said Scioto County residents can call 800-570-1819 or 740-456-8217. “We are here 24 hours, please give us a call. Our services are all free. You don’t have to pay to come see us or to talk to us.”
Annette Jenkins said the same is true in Pike County. Here’s what she says people need to know.
- Our shelter is open, we may screen for symptoms, but they will not deny access to safety.
- A person can still seek a protection order, the courts are not closed.
- The Partnership is still available to assist with the paperwork to obtain a protection order.
- The Partnership has a hotline available 24/7, 740-947-1611.
- You can also message their Facebook page.
- In an emergency call 9-1-1
Support Available
Rhiannon Gill, an advocate for survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse said there’s an online support group available.
“For survivors looking for others that have been affected by domestic violence, the Partnership operates an online support group.” The next support group will be held on May 26, 2020, from 3-4 pm.
To access this chat room, go to HelpRoom . Gill says the chat room is completely confidential and a place to connect with other survivors and professionals who can help.
For more services offered by the Partnership, go to www.PikePartnership.org. All services are confidential and free of charge.