Great Hearts Texas issued the following announcement on Dec. 9.
In San Antonio, as well as across the nation, the holidays can often be a stressful time for families, resulting in a spike in domestic violence every year. In partnership with the San Antonio Police Department, University Health, and the Collaborative Coalition on Domestic Violence, Metro Health’s Violence Prevention section is launching a social media initiative to raise awareness about domestic violence victims’ resources available to domestic violence victims during the holiday season.
"Due to the pandemic, public health has emphasized staying home for the holidays, but also it is important to realize not everyone is safe at home due to domestic violence," said Dr. Sandra Guerra, Interim Deputy Public Health Director at San Antonio Metropolitan Health District. "Please check on your loved ones during this holiday season and know your call may be the lifeline they need to take steps to escape an unsafe situation at home."
Child exchanges, financial concerns, and increased family pressure create conditions that increase domestic violence. “We want people to know they can always reach out for help. If you need to exchange children and feel unsafe, we welcome the public to use the parking lot of SAPD substations to support safe exchanges,“ said Chief William McManus.
Metro Health’s messages focus particularly on creating a safety plan. A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan to improve the victim’s safety while experiencing abuse, preparing to leave an abusive situation, or after they leave. Some of the preparations for a safety plan might seem obvious, but it can be hard to think clearly or make logical decisions during moments of crisis. Having a safety plan laid out in advance can help victims protect themselves and others in high-stress situations. Individuals can find out more about preparing a safety plan.
View more information on the Collaborative Coalition on Domestic Violence.
View more information on the violence prevention initiatives at Metro Health.
Original source can be found here.
Source: Great Hearts Texas
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