Domestic violence is on the rise due to lasting unemployment and increased financial strains on families caused by the recession.  Economic stresses often lead to more frequent abuse and can make it harder for victims to leave abusive relationships because they lack financial resources.

Yuri, a call center specialist for United Way’s 2-1-1, shared a story from one of his callers who was ready to find a way out of her abusive relationship:

Brenda (not her real name) finally “had enough” from her abusive husband and called 2-1-1.  The Dixon Family Services Center, a United Way grantee, suggested she call 2-1-1 when they could not find a local shelter for her.

Brenda had neither a car nor money.  Additionally, her husband had set her cell phone so she could not receive calls and make only toll-free outgoing calls.  Realizing that he could not simply give her a list of phone-number referrals, Yuri stayed on the line with Brenda and helped her make the calls to shelters that help domestic abuse victims.

He started the search for shelters in Sacramento, which is close to Dixon, but all three that he reached were full.  Yuri then extended the search to Vallejo, more than 30 miles away.  To both of their relief, SafeQuest not only had space for Brenda, but also said that they would be able pick her up.

Yuri encouraged Brenda to call 2-1-1 again if she needed more help.

Brenda is one of thousands of callers who reach out to 2-1-1 every month to help them connect with community services.  Learn more at www.211bayarea.org.

Photo courtesy of Emma Thuressen via Creative Commons license.