The Enid News and Eagle, Enid, OK

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May 25, 2010

Down economy is affecting services provided by shelters

By Cass Rains, Staff Writer Enid News and Eagle

ENID — The down economy is having an impact on shelters that provide services for victims of domestic violence, including Enid YWCA Crisis Center.

“The economy has affected the shelter because our clients are having a much harder time finding employment and housing,” said YWCA’s Women’s Services Director Tricia Mitchell. “We have noticed an increase in the length of time clients need to stay because they are unable to find a permanent place to live.”

More than 700 domestic violence shelters across the country were surveyed in March by Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation. Shelters indicated not only did the economic downturn of the last 18 months increase demand for their services, but also hampered their ability to raise funds and provide services during the next 12 months.

In the survey, 77 percent of domestic violence shelters report an increase in women seeking assistance from abuse. The survey also found 57 percent of women in shelters can’t find employment due to the economy.

The survey also found the level of violence has increased as the economy has worsened. Fifty-one percent of shelters nationwide noted abuse is more violent now than before the economic downturn.

“The Mary Kay Truth About Abuse survey confirms the economy affects domestic violence and demonstrates the situation is getting worse,” Mitchell said. “The demand for domestic violence services continues to grow significantly and we must increasingly support victims during this challenging time.”

She said the YWCA Crisis Center provided emergency shelter to 224 adults and children and counseling to 167 people since July 1, 2009.

“This survey data will be crucial to raise much-needed funds,” Mitchell said. “Now more than ever, we implore companies and other organizations like Mary Kay to join us in our efforts to end domestic violence.”

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