Domestic Violence on the rise

“There has been an 82% increase in the number of individuals being served over the last five years for domestic violence in our five county service area,” stated Sarah Coday, Outreach Coordinator for the Crisis Center for Domestic Abuse/Sexual Assault.

The five counties covered are Burt, Cuming, Dodge, Saunders and Washington Counties.

“The need for domestic violence and sexual abuse prevention and intervention services in our community is critical and, unfortunately, that need is increasing,” Sarah said.

The crisis center, established in 1982, is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “The Crisis Center provides services at no charge,” Sarah stated.

The Crisis Center provides many services. “The staff provides advocacy, intervention, case management, life skills and education to victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault,” Sarah said. “Prevention and education programming is provided in our schools systems and community.”

There were many calls in Burt County in 2011. “There were 166 calls for help, 25 adults with 24 children received face-to-face crisis intervention and support services. 97 victim/survivor support groups were attended,” Sarah stated. “On 59 occasions, criminal justice support and court accompaniment were provided, offering support and safety planning.”

Domestic violence is not always reported. “Because the abuse and battering typically happen behind closed doors, it’s easy for us to deny it’s existence,” Sarah said. “The harsh reality is that nearly three out of four Americans personally know someone who is or has been a victim of domestic violence, and it’s happening right here in your community.”
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. To reach the Crisis Center, call 402-721-4340 or email www.crisiscenterfremont.org. The office is located at 141 South Union, Fremont, NE 68025.