Domestic violence was already on the rise pre COVID-19, but the health crisis has caused a tremendous spike in incidents of abuse. According to Veronica Stephens, the Lead community education specialist at Laura’s House in South Orange County, with the shelter in place orders, they have received 65% more hotline calls than this time last year. Partners who are on the receiving end of harm in their relationship are actually stuck in the house with their abuser seven days a week. Before the shutdown, individuals had a break through work or school, now they aren’t able to seek shelter in the comfort of the workplace or classroom. They use errands as a way to get out of the home and then make the call Laura’s House hotline. Even as lockdown restrictions are lifted, the abuse will not simply end. It remains a critical time for survivors, and greater awareness, education and bystander intervention are desperately needed. Laura’s House currently offers telehealth counseling and secured lines for legal advocacy. They also work with clients on safe ways for them to receive our services. The hotline is available 24 hours a day - seven days a week 866-498-1511.
Additional Domestic Violence Resources
- Human Options: 877-854-3594
- Interval House: 714-891-8121
- WTLD (Women’s Transitional Learning Center): 877-531-5522
Domestic Violence Signal
Isolation can increase the risk of violence at home. Use this discrete gesture during a video call or in public to show you need help: 1. Hold hand up with palm facing other person. 2. Tuck thumb into palm. 3. Fold fingers down over thumb.
