Area agencies see spike in domestic violence calls during the holidays

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – For many people, the holidays are a time of joy and togetherness but for some families, it’s also a time for increased danger as advocates share that they often see an increase in domestic abuse violence cases during the holiday season. 

Statistics show that police respond to more domestic violence related calls near the holidays and advocates like Becky Holloway, Court Advocate of Safe House of Southeast Missouri says this happens because of a number of reasons.

“So, it definitely increases, domestic violence during the holidays for a variety of reasons that can be just from the additional stress that families are enduring, complicated schedules, financial strain during the holidays, individuals are at home longer, the kids are out of school or off of work. So, we’re in the house more together, which is, going to increase the likelihood of anything like that happening” says Holloway. 

Holloway says it’s important for those experiencing domestic violence to know that help is there-even on the holidays.

The Safe House of Southeast Missouri has a hotline available to always connect anyone in need to resources and help. 

Holloway saying that no one is alone in that situation, and they are always readily available.

“There is always somebody there on duty” says Holloway. “Usually there’s two trained crisis advocates on duty that will answer that call. They’re even there during the night. We also have a text line that’s available. If it is, texting is easier for them due to safety reasons or maybe they’re just more comfortable texting but there is somebody always on off duty right it’s for that.” 

“Holloway shares that the next step after contacting the hotline depends on the individual situation, she shares that most of the staff at the Safe House of Southeast Missouri has experienced domestic violence and they can help connect to a safe environment, new items like clothing, help with court cases and more.

Home – Safe House of Southeast Missouri

Safe House of Southeast Missouri Hotline: 573-651-1614

Text line: 573-340-1060

Available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.