PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — While the popular Netflix drama “Maid” has shined a light on the very real crisis of fleeing abusive relationships, A Woman’s Place in Bucks County is living it every day.
The domestic violence response group helps hundreds of survivors — the only organization in the county, according to Director Marianne Lynch. She said they are the lifeline for those who have or are experiencing real-life struggles with abusive relationships.
“We are here 24/7,” she said. “We have our line, 1-800-220-8116 — there’s always somebody on the other end of the phone. If it rings, call back, because chances are they’re with somebody else. But there’s always a live person to talk to.”
Throughout the pandemic, the demand for their essential services has increased. Between July 1, 2019, and June 30, 2020, the center received about 4,300 calls. From the same time period between 2020 and 2021, there were about 6,000 calls — a 40% increase.
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“The intensity, as well as the frequency, has arisen for us, which is pretty scary because … their safety is at risk,” Lynch said. “I don’t think people realize that, but the longer it goes on and the more consistent it is, the greater risk there is.
“One of the reasons that we don’t disclose the location of our safehouse is because when somebody leaves an abusive situation, that’s actually the most dangerous time, and so we want to make sure that they are safe and that they are cared for in a way that they they feel like they can let their guard down and be safe for a little bit.”
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While hotline calls have surged, many factors in the already complex and layered process have been delayed.
“The court system was not operating at full capacity,” Lynch noted. “There was a lot of continuances of cases. So you have people who were in danger, who are still in danger, because there were no consequences for the individuals who were the perpetrators.”
Many domestic violence shelters depend on the kindness of volunteers and donations. Going into the holiday season, Lynch hopes the community will keep the organization’s mission and significance in mind.
“We need support from the public to value [staff] and the work that they’re doing. They’re keeping a whole lot of people safe. They are working really hard to do it. And I want to make sure that they feel and know and are valued for that work,” Lynch said.
