The Work of the WCA Has Never Been More Important
Friends,
I hope that the sunshine we have been enjoying the past few days has helped to lift your spirits as we continue to navigate the unchartered waters brought upon us with the COVID 19 pandemic. When I look at the new life springing up around me on my daily trips outside, it gives me hope. Reports from Idaho seem to indicate that our social distancing policies are working, which also gives me hope that perhaps we can get through this pandemic without the same catastrophic results as people in other parts of the country are experiencing.
However, home is not always a safe place. Having access to community services and support networks has never been more imperative than now – especially for those in a home where there is abuse or neglect. The calls we received in March increased by almost 24%, from both new and existing clients looking for support and help. Our staff was able to answer those phone calls and provide information, resources and sometimes – just be a supportive listener on the other end. And, in the first quarter of this year, the number for calls for assistance relating to domestic violence are up 93% over the same time last year.
The work of the WCA has never been more important – and I want you to know how much we appreciate your support. We have made some adjustments in the way we deliver services—but our Crisis Center is open and our hotlines are staffed 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
Our Court Advocacy team is assisting with the facilitation of civil protection order filing and hearings and providing safety planning appointments from our Washington Street location every weekday.
Our program staff are still serving clients and holding case management, financial empowerment and counseling sessions and supporting clients in every way possible through virtual methods.
Our secure domestic violence shelter campus is staffed and we are taking extra precautions to care for the well-being and safety of the residents. We are here and for anyone needing services, please help us communicate that you are not alone—24-Hour Domestic Abuse Hotline 208-343-7025 and WCA Crisis Center at 720 W. Washington Street 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday – Friday.
Sending my best wishes for continued safety and good health!
Bea
