Safe House of Southeast Missouri sees increase in domestic violence survivors

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and advocates are reminding survivors that help is available and they do not have to navigate the process alone.

Safe House of Southeast Missouri served more than 700 victims last year, a 25% increase from the previous year, according to the organization’s Marketing and Development Officer, Jessie Green.

Green said one of the most important things friends and family can do when someone shares their experience with domestic violence is listen and believe them.

“The very first thing you can do is just start by believing,” Green said. “And just saying, ‘Hey, I’m listening. How can I help you get out? How can I help you get through this time?’”

According to national statistics cited by Green one in three women and one in seven men will experience physical domestic violence in their lifetime.

Safe House offers several resources for people experiencing domestic violence, including a 24-hour hotline staffed by shelter employees. The organization can help survivors develop safety plans, discuss their experiences and understand their options.

Green said survivors are not pressured to make a decision before they are ready.

The organization also offers text-based communication for people who may not feel safe making a phone call. Survivors can reach out through the Safe House website, which allows staff to follow up with them.

For those who prefer to speak with someone in person, Safe House’s outreach office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Green said the goal is to provide support and help survivors determine what steps are right for them.

Anyone experiencing domestic violence can contact Safe House of Southeast Missouri for confidential support and information about available resources.

24-hour crisis hotline- 1-800-341-1830

Safe House of Southeast Missouri also relies on community support to continue providing free services to survivors.

The Safe House hosts food trucks every Friday at its outreach office and thrift shop to help raise awareness and connect more people with its resources. The organization also plans to host a late-night thrift shop event on Oct. 22, remaining open until 7 p.m., and participate in the SEMO homecoming parade and an event “The Next Level” on Nov. 14 at Cape Girardeau’s Buckner-Ragsdale Event Center, raising funds to support survivors of domestic violence. Enjoy live performances, appetizers and a silent auction.

Green said fundraising efforts help ensure survivors can continue receiving services at no cost, so the organization does not have to turn anyone away because of a lack of funding.

Contact Us – Safe House of Southeast Missouri