Our Response to COVID-19
We Are Here For You
Our priorities are to keep our doors open to provide critical services to survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking while minimizing the risk of community spread of the COVID-19 virus. We are monitoring the current situation, but know we are still answering calls to our 24/7 Helpline number, our emergency shelter remains open, and we continue to provide telephonic services, and legal advocacy work to families in need. Our tele-mental health services are ready to respond to survivors needs.
July 23 2020: Virtual Programming to Keep You Safer During COVID-19
As many of us continue to adjust and pivot to the guidelines set forth by our state and federal governments due to the global outbreak of Coronavirus, WTLC brings you FREE online programming, classes, and workshops to support your emotional, mental, and relational health. You can see the whole list of free online classes, workshops, and livestreams here. Below is a calendar of our virtual programming and available classes can be downloaded here.
June 22 2020: During COVID-19, Domestic Violence Has Been on the Rise
During COVID-19, domestic violence has been on the rise. Since March, WTLC has experienced a 135% increase in calls to our 24/7 Helpline, with the majority of callers seeking shelter or housing assistance. Other requests have included legal advocacy, counseling, and financial support. See how WTLC has responded to survivors’ increased needs in this short video.
April 8, 2020: Online Resources for Community Participants
Dear Community Participants,
We are committed to keeping our doors open to provide critical services to survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking while minimizing the risk of community spread of the COVID-19 virus. To honor social distancing guidelines, our supportive services are still available online. Here are some resources that have been transitioned online.
Learning From a Distance – A daily live stream from WTLC’s Facebook on preventing violence from a distance with our Community Advocates.
March 23: CEO Update on COVID-19
Dear Friends of WTLC,
I hope everyone is well and staying healthy.
As our local and national environment constantly changes in relation to COVID-19, at WTLC we have been bringing the very best thinking and planning to our organizational response and plan of action. Our two fundamental priorities have been identified:
- Protection of the health, safety and wellness of our staff, volunteers, and participants, mitigating community transmission of the virus.
- Successful delivery of our programs and services, delivering the highest service quality as we can in a way that protects the safety of all.
WTLC is an essential business/activity and our programs and services remain operational. WTLC has adopted an appropriate response plan that allows us to keep our doors open to provide critical services to survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking while minimizing the risk of community spread of the COVID-19 virus.
We are still answering calls to our 24/7 Helpline number, our emergency shelter remains open to those fleeing from abusive situations, and we continue to provide therapeutic counseling and legal advocacy work.
I am truly impressed by my team’s strong sense of compassion and commitment to serve our community’s survivors during this difficult time.
Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
With Appreciation,
Mark
Government Information
- OC Health Care Agency The OC Health Care Agency Health Referral Line is taking questions from the community about COVID-19 from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. seven day per week at 1 (800) 564-8448.
- Coronavirus.gov
Official government website with information about the outbreak.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Updated information for people at higher risk for complications from COVID-19, including older adults and people with chronic health conditions.
Additional Resources
Are you experiencing increased isolation and danger due to social distancing? Create a safety plan that will help during this stressful time. WTLC can help survivors walk through a potential safety plan at 1-877-533-5522. When making your safety plan, especially in light of the new uncertainty for most of our daily lives, here are 10 safety planning tips:
- Trust your judgment. If a situation/individual makes you uncomfortable, trust that feeling.
- Change your exit plan to account for shelter-in-place requirements as different localities have different public health advice regarding movement and gatherings.
- Let a trusted friend/relative know if you feel like you are in danger or if a person/situation is suspicious.
- If you feel your abuser may be monitoring your communications, delete calls and messages, use coded language, or chat online in “incognito” mode.
- Keep important numbers on your person at all times, including the number of someone you feel safe contacting if you are in trouble.
- Make sure that you have a means of communication (cell phone or phone card), access to your bank account, and any medication that you might need with you at all times.
- Plan regular phone or video chat check-ins with your friends, family, and people you trust.
- Practice self-care even if you can’t leave the house – make sure you’re eating enough, try to get enough sleep, and if you’re able to leave the house, try taking a daily walk outside.
- Recognize when it might be time to leave. Even during a “shelter in place” situation, escaping an abuser is considered “essential” travel.
- Be an ally – check in on your friends and neighbors during this time. If you see something suspicious, call 911.