Coronavirus: Project Woman sees 74% increase in emergency shelter requests

SPRINGFIELD — Project Woman, a domestic violence and sexual assault shelter serving Clark, Champaign and Madison Counties has experienced a 74 percent increase in shelter requests since the onset of social distancing.

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Sheltering-in-place is essential in curbing the spread of coronavirus, but it can be dangerous -- even deadly for adults and children who must shelter with their abuser, the agency said in a release. Research shows that heightened stress brings increased incidents of violence and sexual assault.

Project Woman's emergency shelters are still operating and their crisis/help line is still available 24/7.

“First and foremost we want to assure our community that Project Woman is open and here to support victims and families," said Executive Director Laura Baxter in a written statement.

Project Woman has implemented additional safety measures and health screenings for staff, survivors, and visitors in alignment with guidance provided by the Center for Disease Control.

The staff is still on the front lines keeping the emergency shelters open and responding in person, with added safety protocols, to sexual assault or domestic violence calls from hospitals and emergency rooms.

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