The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting all of us in various ways. With stay-at-home orders in effect and social distancing mandates across the nation, people are spending more time at home with family, in order to stay safe. But, what if home isn’t safe either?
With incidents of domestic violence expected to rise as the pandemic stretches on, DVSCP has continued offering a full range of services, albeit with a few adjustments. None of this would have been possible without your previous support. Because of the generosity of our community, we have been able to focus on the services that are needed to keep people safe.
Since late March, staff have worked on a rotating basis in the office to keep the hotline open 24/7, while keeping the office sparsely populated. Those seeking emergency shelter are now placed in a hotel rather than in the shelter due to its communal living environment, keeping our residents and staff safe. Protection From Abuse Orders are completed over the phone and counseling is offered either by phone or Zoom.
The pandemic forced DVSCP to cancel all fundraisers through June 1, including its largest fundraiser of the year – the Annual Sunflower Gala. Fearing a total loss, the agency was once again blown away by the outpouring of love and understanding from sponsors, donors, and attendees with many offering their payment as a donation. Attendees were still able to enjoy the Gala’s silent auction, which was held through an online auction platform, raising more than $9,000!
The agency is buoyed by an amazing community and we can’t begin to express our immense gratitude and appreciation to everyone who has made a donation – monetary, as well as necessary items such as facemasks, gloves, food, and sanitizer.