Helping the underdog in social services
Published: August 21, 2003
Whenever someone in Bluff (USA) is arrested for domestic violence staff members from Catholic Charities’ Phoenix House place a call to the victim while the perpetrator is still in jail.
“That might be the only information that a victim might get regarding domestic violence and sexual abuse. It’s helpful for us to be able to provide that information so they can make good choices for themselves.”
If the victim wants to get out o the abusive relation Phoenix House provides safe shelter, and legal and medical advocacy to both men and women. Volunteers help take care of the children while the women get help.
“With the kids, it’s kind of a traumatic time for them or a stressful time; so anytime you’re playing outside with them, you know it’s kind of a stress reliever for them”
Phoenix House also operates a crisis hotline.
“Whenever I answer the phone, I know I’m helping someone just by answering the phone.”
Volunteers are a major part of the program.
“We couldn’t do it without volunteers,” she said. “We have excellent volunteers and very committed volunteers. Last year, we had 151 individuals who volunteered 1,965 hours.”
With the help of volunteers, Phoenix House served 1,028 people last year, McKee said. The facility provided 3,422 nights of shelter to 108 women and 116 children.
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