Christine Palm

The Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) and its 18 member organizations have been working hard to provide services that meet the evolving needs of those suffering from intimate partner violence during this public health crisis.

While services provided by CCADV's 18 member organizations and CT Safe Connect, the state’s domestic violence resource hub, have been remote since mid-March, all services remain available 24/7 via call, text, chat and email.

The CCADV and I want to provide you with an update on Connecticut’s domestic violence response system during COVID-19.

As the information in the image above provided by CCADV shows, this period of social isolation presents increased risk for domestic violence, and an increased number of victims have reached out who have never before contacted CCADV's service system. We have also seen that COVID-19 is having an impact on the ability of victims to access basic needs, which can certainly exacerbate an already abusive relationship.

Safe Connect advocates are providing safety planning, counseling, assistance with an online restraining order application, and a safe connection to the victim’s local CCADV member organization for ongoing support and services.

I want to thank CCADV for raising awareness about the availability of its services during this public health crisis and for being such tremendous partners in preventing violence against women.