COVID-19 resources

SHOULD I RISK COVID-19 TO ESCAPE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?

For people dealing with domestic violence, home is not a safe place. Mandates to quarantine may keep you safe from a pandemic, but can be deadly when you live with an abusive partner. Living in fear and isolation is harder today than it was before this national health crisis.

Domestic violence spikes during times of stress and economic hardship. Survivors need help now more than ever. Sojourner remains open and available. Our agency is an essential business.

3 THINGS SURVIVORS CAN DO DESPITE COVID-19:

1) Take measures to stay safe
We are still open and able to help with safety planning, restraining orders and ongoing support. Call Sojourner’s free, confidential 24-hour hotline today for safety and shelter concerns. Our Advocates also can assist via phone, text and email. Call 911 for help, if needed. Check our online safety planning resources to assess your situation.

Resources:

2) Learn the facts about COVID-19
Knowledge is power. Learn how to safeguard against COVID-19 from unbiased sources such as Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Wisconsin Dept. of Health Services. Sojourner will not deny safety and support services based on your health status. We are committed to maintaining a safe and sanitary environment for our visitors, clients, staff and supporters.

3) Reach out for help
You are not alone. It’s not your fault and we’re here to help. Our agency is open Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Advocates are available for assistance with restraining orders Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Our 24-hour hotline is answered by trained Advocates 24/7/365. Phone, text and email support is available. Call 911 for help, if needed.

A SHARED COMMITMENT TO HEALTH AND SAFETY

We are committed to safeguarding staff, visitors and clients from illness.

Here’s what we’re doing at Sojourner to ensure a healthy and sanitary environment:

  • Increasing the frequency of cleaning public spaces with CDC-approved disinfectants

  • Posting notices and educational info about hand washing and COVID-19

  • Providing masks and quarantined spaces to visitors who exhibit symptoms of illness

  • Prohibiting staff from business travel outside the state

  • Asking staff and volunteers who are sick to stay home

  • Encouraging social distancing during support groups and meetings

  • Suspending in-home client visits for 30 days

  • Prohibiting in-kind donation drop-offs; Amazon deliveries only.

  • Postponing our Be the Light fundraising dinner

We ask that visitors to Sojourner Family Peace Center:

  • Wash hands thoroughly

  • Call ahead, if able. Sojourner and Family Peace Center partner agencies may have limited staff or modified hours of operation. Our free, confidential 24-hour hotline, (414) 933-2722, is available at any time.

  • Wear a mask, if you are sick or at risk of spreading illness

  • Cooperate if Sojourner staff share any guidance related to ensuring a healthy visit

HOW YOU CAN HELP

This unprecedented event is already having a significant impact on our economy and the nonprofit community. Sojourner’s clients are at a higher risk of contracting widespread illnesses.

Consider making a gift to help us serve our clients during this difficult time.

Sojourner