By: Sue Jensen, Outreach

Many countries, including the United States, have reported an increase in domestic violence amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Fear of contracting a rampant and dangerous disease, financial insecurity, stress, and general uncertainty about the future have led to increased aggression in some homes, with abusers able to control large parts of their victims’ daily lives. This is nothing new. Statistics for years have shown that domestic violence, already an epidemic in many places, spikes when households are placed under increased strain from worries and cramped living conditions.

Locally the Emerge! Center Against Domestic Abuse provides emergency shelter for women and children escaping from domestic violence and abuse. Due to current conditions in Southern Arizona, Emerge! is now at maximum capacity and in urgent need of in-kind help. The most-needed items are:

  • Face masks (both cloth and disposable)
  • Disinfecting wipes and spray
  • Size 5 diapers and baby wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Paper towels and toilet paper
  • Rubbing alcohol

Donated items can be delivered to the Emerge! office at 2545 E. Adams Street or brought to the TVLC office. Cash donations are also welcome, and are very helpful.

For more information, email Sue Jensen.