Domestic violence centers see spike in trouble during holiday season

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – For many, the holiday season is one filled with joy and making memories.

But for others, the holiday season brings on stress and fear as leaders see an increase in domestic violence cases.

When the phone rings at Safe Homes of Augusta, it’s not just a call for help.

It’s a call for action.

“Safe Homes is the only nonprofit domestic violence center, and we service 10 counties. And so, therefore, we see a lot of different types of calls that come in,” said Safe Homes Executive Director Aimme Hall.

Hall says hundreds of calls come directly to this line each month.

“Last year, we took over 1,900 calls. Through those calls, you know, we see a lot of different types of abuse,” said Hall.

There are calls ranging from emotional and financial abuse to physical abuse.

During the holidays, the calls get worse. Hall says they increase by 30%.

“We do get a lot of calls, but it could be, you know, not so much for shelter maybe, but just for outreach services because during those times, you know, domestic violence can worsen. Then maybe we’re getting calls for temporary protection or assistance,” she said.

But Hall says more calls don’t always mean the shelter fills up during the holidays.

“Not everybody’s ready to leave during the holidays. And we can’t, as, you know, the community, social workers, advocates, we can’t push them to leave. Because, again, they know when it’s the best, when it’s the most dangerous,” said Hall.

You may not realize you or someone you love could be at risk.

But she says there are things to look out for.

“Isolation is a huge one. Of course, the emotional abuse, you know, we see a lot of that with the intimidation. If you see that your loved one is being intimidated by their partner,” said Hall.

Even though most are off for the holidays, advocates at Safe Homes are not.

They are open 365 days a year with a 24-hour emergency unmarked shelter ready to help you on the first ring.

Safe Homes of Augusta has a 24/7 crisis hotline if you or someone you know needs help.

If you need help, call 706-736-2499.

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