SPOKANE, Wash. — Spokane is grappling with a domestic violence crisis as local organizations face significant funding cuts at a time when the need for services continues to grow.
The region consistently reports some of the highest domestic violence rates in Washington state and across the country.
In Spokane, one in every three women and one in every 10 men are victims of domestic abuse, according to the Spokane Regional Health District.
“Our rates are always higher than everybody else’s across the board within the state and often even nationally,” said Taffy Hunter, Executive Director at Spokane Regional Domestic Violence Coalition.
While Spokane offers several resources for victims, navigating the system can be challenging. Hunter describes the situation as “resource rich and resource confusing,” noting that factors like the type of abuse and where victims live can determine which services are available to them.
The confusion is compounded by recent cuts to vital resources. The YWCA Spokane, which provides shelter, a 24/7 helpline and other critical services, is not operating at full strength due to federal funding reductions.
“This year we’ve had at least a $500,000 reduction in funding through some of those various sources,” said Briana Berner with YWCA Spokane.
The organization has been forced to scale back legal services, staff and youth outreach programs to compensate for the funding loss. This comes at a particularly dangerous time for victims seeking help.
“When a survivor tries to leave a relationship, their risk of death goes up 70 percent. So we know these services are crucial,” Berner said.
Despite the cuts, demand for services continues to increase. The YWCA’s 24/7 domestic violence helpline is experiencing unprecedented call volume.
“We’re on track to receive about 6,000 calls, which is nearly 2,000 more than we received last year,” Berner said.
As Domestic Violence Action Month concludes, local organizations are asking for community support and urging people to keep the conversation going in hopes of addressing this persistent problem.
“I think every single person that I know knows someone or has personally experienced domestic violence. It’s happening all around us, so it truly takes all of us,” Berner said.
For a list of resources in the region, click here.
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