KOSCIUSKO — The National Network to End Domestic Violence recently released the annual Domestic Violence Counts census report. The 24-hour count of services provided to adult and child victims, which took place on Sept. 14, 2016, offers a unique glimpse into the untold story of our nation’s domestic violence shelters.

Domestic violence programs provide desperately needed services to individuals who are very often fleeing for their lives. Shelters provide a safe haven in a time of fear and uncertainty, working closely with families, communities, law enforcement, health care workers and other advocates.

The data revealed in this newly released report show that in just one day …

• 1,762 local domestic violence programs (92 percent of 1,910) participated in the national census and reported the number of services they provided to survivors, as well as the services they were unable to provide.
• 72,959 adults and children (36 at the Beaman Home) received help and support from domestic violence programs on Census Day. Of this number, more than 41,000 adults and children (13 at the Beaman Home) found refuge in emergency shelters or transitional housing.
• 26,076 individuals (13 at the Beaman Home) participated in prevention and education trainings offered by domestic violence programs that day, including students, teachers, law enforcement and community leaders.
• 20,239 calls for help were answered by local, state and national hotline staff and volunteers. The Beaman Home received one hotline call during those 24-hours.

The phenomenal work of domestic violence programs, including the Beaman Home, is sadly undermined by a lack of resources. In fact, on the Census Day, 11,991 requests for services could not be met due to a lack of resources. Of this number, 66 percent (7,914) were for emergency or transitional shelter. On that day, the Beaman Home was completely full and could not accept new requests, so one person was turned away.

“These statistics are important because they bring to light the impact of 24 hours at a DV Shelter.” says Tracie Hodson, Executive Director at the Beaman Home. “At the time of the census, we were still in our old shelter with only 13 beds. Even as a small shelter, we’ve been making a huge impact for victims and their children who are struggling in our community, helping them pick up the pieces after their lives have been shattered by violence.”