An unintended consequence of a stay-at-home order is an increase of family violence when existing stressors like job loss become more frequent.
However, the Hays Caldwell Women’s Center has seen a dramatic drop in victims reaching out for hospital service calls for the month of March. In February of this year, HCWC received 23 calls and that number dropped to four calls in March.
HCWC Director of Community Partnerships Melissa Rodriguez said calls for help were steadily rising, compared to 2019, until the COVID-19 pandemic occurred. The rise in calls, Rodriguez said, is a sign that people are more knowledgeable and willing to take advantage of the resources available. Records show about 93 percent increase in calls compared to March 2019.
“We were receiving a high number of calls and it suddenly came to a screeching halt in March. It exhibits what people are experiencing. People might be feeling more isolated with their abuser and less willing to seek help. Or people are scared to get a forensic exam or stay at our emergency shelter in fear of getting sick,” Rodriguez said.
The current health and economic crisis will change how emergency services are handled, but Rodriguez said that the HCWC is adapting to keep people safe.
Now the 10-bedroom emergency shelter is cleaned more frequently and other serious precautions are being taken to prevent illness.
Some hospitals, like Ascension Seton in Kyle, are no longer providing sexual assault forensic exams in effort to reduce exposure to COVID-19 and to spare medical resources. Victims are now referred to the Eloise House in Austin.
The Central Texas Medical Center continues to provide forensic sexual assault exams in its facility.
Victim advocate services during a forensic exam are still available, but via phone now. When a victim is sexually assaulted they have the option to be referred to a HCWC advocate, who will provide comfort and resources such as counseling.
“Call us. We’re still here 24/7 and ready to help with the new challenges. Victims often go back to their abuser because a lack of options and that is more exacerbated now, but we’re here to work through it all with you,” Rodriguez said.
Soon iPads will be provided to give victims a face-to-face interaction with their advocate.
As everyone continues to stay indoors, child abuse and domestic violence is now behind closed doors, so Rodriguez is asking the community to keep an eye on neighbors and people who have experienced family violence before.
“Usually, teachers and people in the community report signs of violence, but that’s hard to do now. So now, neighbors and family members need to take the time to call people or drop off groceries to get eyes on someone who could be in danger,” Rodriguez said.
For more education on how to help victims of violence go to stopthehurt.org. If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, do not hesitate to go online and find services at hcwc.org.
