Attorney General, Domestic Violence Advocates Highlight Laws, Local Services, New Website to Connect to Help
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
Glastonbury, CT – Last year almost 13,000 individuals contacted Safe Connect, Connecticut’s domestic violence information and resource line, looking for help, with over 37,000 survivors ultimately walking through the doors of Connecticut’s 18 domestic violence organizations where they received a variety of life-saving services. Emergency shelters continued to overflow while experiencing a forty-five percent (45%) increase in the length of time survivors stayed in shelter.
“Domestic violence is one of the most significant public health crises facing Connecticut,” said Meghan Scanlon, President & CEO, CCADV. “The shelters run by our 18 members organizations have been overflowing consistently since 2015, with a significant spike to over 150% capacity since the pandemic began. Many survivors are struggling more than ever with increasing economic and behavioral health challenges. We want them to know that they are not alone. Safe Connect advocates are available 24/7 via call, text, chat, or email to get survivors connected with their local CCADV member organization for services. Our newly redesigned website ensures help is never more than one click away.”
Advocates that work across the state at CCADV’s 18 member organizations, including advocates stationed at local courthouses, are ready to help survivors and their children navigate their safety and independence. They can assist in determining the relevant legal protections, such as civil restraining orders, protection from firearms, domestic violence as a protected class, and access to various state benefits, including paid family medical leave, a portion of which can also be used specifically by survivors for safe leave.
“Connecticut has some of the strongest domestic violence laws on the books, but these protections only work if victims know where to get help and feel safe reaching out. If you feel unsafe in your relationship or have any questions whatsoever about support for domestic violence victims, know that Safe Connect’s website is safe, free, and confidential,” said Attorney General Tong. “As we approach Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I stand with CCADV and it’s 18 member organizations across Connecticut in committing to defending and advancing our state’s protections for domestic violence victims and survivors.”
Earlier this month CCADV launched a redesigned website for Safe Connect with the primary goal of increasing access to services provided across the state by CCADV’s 18 member organizations. CTSafeConnect.org offers enhanced methods of communication beyond traditional hotline calls, including text, chat and email, so that survivors can talk with advocates in the way they are most comfortable. As the entry point to domestic violence services in Connecticut, advocates will get survivors connected to CCADV's 18 member organizations who will be with them every step of the way as they navigate their situation.
“There are over 400 domestic violence advocates working tirelessly across the state at the coalition’s 18 member organizations, including 34 at Safe Futures serving Southeastern Connecticut,” said Katherine Verano, CEO, Safe Futures. “One of the key tactics that abusers use to control their victims is isolation. Our advocates provide the ear that survivors need, listening without judgement and offering options. We restore hope and we encourage anyone with questions about their relationship to reach out to us.”
Said survivor, Cheryl, “Without Safe Futures I don’t know where I would be today. They kept me and my family safe and helped me become a strong, independent mother and role model to my three children. I encourage anyone to reach out for services any way you can as no one deserves to live in fear and isolation.”
Visit www.ctsafeconnect.org to learn more about domestic violence, what to expect when you access services, and the services available across the state at CCADV’s 18 member organizations, accessible 24/7 through Safe Connect.
