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Informed Citizens

are Better Citizens

Domestic Violence and Child Abuse

Stay-at-home orders can be particularly problematic for those exposed to domestic violence and cooped up with their abusers during the COVID-19 crisis. Experts report that abusers are using the pandemic to control their victims in new ways, including preventing partners from working and denying access to safety measures.

If you know someone that may be in an unsafe relationship, experts recommend checking in with them on a regular basis. Set up a regular check-in time or have a code word that can be used if help is needed.

Resources:

The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached by calling 800-799-7233, texting LOVEIS to 22522 or visiting thehotline.org.

The New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence lists several domestic violence resources on its website, including Resources on the Response to the Coronavirus and Domestic Violence Legal Resources, like how to prepare for court.

 

The NJ Department of Children and Families (DCF) has launched a ‘Social Distancing Shouldn’t Mean Social Isolation’ campaign to raise awareness about child abuse, domestic violence and other dangers facing residents while homebound. If you need help, call a hotline. They are offering publications in support of children and families during the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic, which are available for download as either PDF (ideal for print) or JPG (ideal for social media). All can be found at this link.