Domestic Violence while Sheltering in Place

Every year, more than 10 million Americans face domestic violence. Experts fear that the COVID-19 pandemic and social isolation could result in an increase in domestic violence incidents.

Being under quarantine can be a stressful time for anyone, but being in quarantine with an abuser means fighting for your life and safety.  With the global shelter-in-place we are facing due to COVID-19, many domestic violence victims will be forced to spend more time with their abusers. 

Many victims feel doubly trapped at this time - by their abuser and by the virus.  Ruby’s Place stands ready to assist in any way we can.  

“We started seeing an increase in calls, not just in the volume, but the intensity in which clients call with distress levels,” said Elizabeth McCourt, chief health and safety officer for the YWCA of Delaware.

“We understand that many people might not feel safe leaving their home and coming to a shelter at this time.  But when a home isn’t safe, hard decisions need to be made. If you can call the Ruby’s Place hotline, we can help you make a safety plan.  ” said Sophora Acheson, Executive Director of Ruby’s Place in Hayward, California.