With so many people out of work, anxious, and consuming more alcohol, domestic violence reports are on the rise throughout the Bay Area.
The San Francisco District Attorney’s Office says its Victim Services Division saw a 60% spike in referrals during the first week of the shelter in place order, compared with the same period one year ago. That number did drop by 33% in the second week of the order.
“While staying home except for essential needs is necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19, it isn’t the safest option for everyone. On top of dealing with the global pandemic, far too many families also have to deal with the threat of violence and abuse at home, all while being more socially isolated from their friends and other support networks,” said Mayor London Breed.
Reports of domestic violence and abuse typically spike during periods of stress.
“We are definitely seeing an increase from what we call the back end - people who are already in a situation that has gotten violent or is a problem for them,” says Daniel Holloway with the San Mateo County services organization CORA. “Also if we look at things such as our website, we’re seeing a dramatic increase in traffic visiting the website.”
Officials want victims to know that while some agencies have had to modify services, help is still available 24/7.
“I understand that this is a unique time and there are challenges for everyone. But do understand that you don’t have to stay in an abusive relationship because of coronavirus,” says Holloway. “Services are available, not just with CORA but with domestic violence agencies around the bay. We are here, there’s help if you need it. Please do reach out.”
San Francisco officials have partnered with the real estate company Veritas to provide 20 fully furnished apartments for survivors under their Safe Home program. The homes are located in secure buildings across the city and are available to survivors, their families and pets for up to 90 days at no cost. The new apartments will be ready for people to move in this weekend.
If you are a survivor of domestic violence and need assistance, call 911 in an emergency. And for services, the National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached 24-hours a day at 800-799-7233. La Casa de las Madres runs a 24-hour hotline that serves people across California. Their adult line can be reached at 877-503-1850 and the teen line is 877-923-0700.
W.O.M.A.N., Inc.’s crisis line serves the whole Bay Area and can be reached at 415-864-4722. And CORA’s hotline in San Mateo County can be reached at 800-300-1080.