Each year the WCA shelters nearly 200 women and children who are fleeing domestic violence. The most dangerous time for a victim of abuse is when she makes the decision to leave the relationship. Statistics reveal that up to three-fourths of domestic violence assaults reported to law enforcement are inflicted after separation of a couple and 75 percent of women who are killed as a result of a violent relationship are killed while trying to leave. In 2013, 44 percent of shelter residents reported being abused on a daily basis, while 25 percent acknowledged that the abuse had been occurring for four to ten years. Equally disturbing is the fact that for 26 percent of the shelter residents, the most recent incident involved strangulation. Historically, three-fourths of the residents have children and last year 38 percent were under five years old. The importance of sustaining available shelter cannot be understated. It provides immediate security, relief, hope and the chance to build a new beginning. Thanks to those who support the WCA’s effort to provide safety, healing and freedom.
