CCADV Press Releases

Change is possible but it may not be easy. Under significant stress, we may act in ways that are blaming, controlling, and, possibly abusive. Although it may not feel like it in the moment, these behaviors are choices. Therefore, we can choose to act in ways that are supportive and kind. Maintaining healthy relationships under the best of circumstances is difficult. It takes a strong and resilient person to choose to act calmly and compassionately under stress.

Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) offers the following update on data available from various stakeholders within Connecticut’s domestic violence response system during COVID-19. “During the first two weeks of April we saw a marked increase in calls to the state’s domestic violence hotline,” said Karen Jarmoc, chief executive officer, CCADV. “We continue to see the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on victims as they cope with issues such as unemployment and decreased access to basic necessities. Our service system feels the ripple effect but we continue to adjust to ensure that the needs of victims are met. We want victims and survivors to know that all domestic violence services remain operational 24/7 throughout this public health crisis and we will do everything we can to ensure their families have what they need to stay safe.”

With domestic violence organizations seeing an increase in calls for help, Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) and our 18 member organizations want to remind everyone that help is available 24/7 throughout COVID-19. CCADV offers the following data available from various stakeholders within Connecticut’s domestic violence response system: CT Safe Connect/Statewide Hotline Contact to Safe Connect, Connecticut’s centralized domestic violence resource hub, has been consistent. There were 1,060 contacts in January, 1,284 contacts in February, and 1,314 contacts in March. 7% of individuals who contacted Safe Connect over the past two weeks expressed concerns related specifically to COVID-19. The majority of victims and survivors seeking assistance through Safe Connect do so via phone call as opposed to chat or email (texting is temporarily unavailable during this remote work period).

The Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) today thanked Governor Lamont for yesterday’s Executive Order creating an alternative to affidavits in restraining orders. The Executive Order, coupled with new processes established by the CT Judicial Branch, will allow victims to apply for a restraining order completely electronically without having to go to court. Effective Monday, April 6, 2020, CCADV, CT Safe Connect and advocates at our 18 member organizations will be able to assist victims with completing the restraining order application remotely.

Today Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV) announced that it will provide transportation to any domestic violence victims seeking to apply for a restraining order. Noting necessary court closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CCADV has noticed a downward trend in restraining order applications and wants to ensure that all victims have access to this important safety measure. CCADV is partnering with Lindsey Limousine.