This month marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), an opportunity to unite advocates across the country to stand up against domestic violence. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner.
Lauren Shaivitz, executive director of CHANA, an agency of The Associated that offers a Jewish response to the needs of domestic violence and abuse victims, reminds us that our community is not immune to abuse. In fact, amidst a global pandemic, CHANA has seen a 75% increase in calls and a 153% increase in need for emergency shelter. Raising awareness about domestic abuse and how we can work together to help build lives free of violence becomes even more paramount, not just during the month of October, but all year round. Below are just some of the individuals CHANA has helped in its 25 years of service. The following stories contain content that may be triggering to some viewers.
Domestic Abuse During COVID
The COVID-19 pandemic unfortunately saw an increase in the need for CHANA’s services as victims were trapped in their homes with their abusers. Hear how one woman was able to reach out to CHANA to help her escape an abusive relationship during quarantine.
