Continuing Support for Domestic Abuse Victims During COVID-19

Jake’s Diapers community partner Safe Haven keeps all services running while supporting basic needs for domestic abuse victims during COVID-19.

She started down the right track, felt the momentum below her feet – and then COVID-19 threw her off course again.

Shortly before Wisconsin went on lockdown, she had been hired for her dream job and was ready to start a life of her own after leaving her abuser in a domestic violence situation. 

The woman, who is anonymous for her protection, is just one person receiving help from Safe Haven, a domestic abuse and sexual assault support center.

“She had just been hired to start her dream job, then the pandemic hit and the business was closed,” said Executive Director Stacey Cicero. “She didn’t have other work and was now jobless. Unfortunately, her ex husband lost his job and child support stopped. She had no income coming in. Safe Haven was able to assist with food, hygiene, and other assistance to help her through this time. She continues to receive our support and is working toward self sufficiency.”

Safe Haven is one of Jake’s Diapers community partners, helping to distribute important hygiene items from our programs. While the nonprofit continues to offer all its services, the pandemic has shifted the way they approach and emphasize certain needs.

“Our focus has really shifted to just managing the basic needs of our clients,” Stacey said. “They need emotional support, food, hygiene, diapers, medicines and activities! We have been distributing food boxes, gas cards, grocery cards and other needed items as much as we are able. We are helping victims of domestic violence and sexual assault find safe housing.”

Safe Haven offers other help such as support groups, a crisis line and legal assistance – like help with restraining orders. It’s continued its operations via phone appointments and virtual zoom meetings where possible and necessary for safety. Overall, Stacey said it’s important to continue providing 

“Being quarantined has different effects on people and many are working through the issues of emotional isolation,” she said.

About Our Efforts in NE Wisconsin: Jake’s Diapers recognizes many families in our region of Wisconsin struggle on a regular basis with basic needs and hygiene necessities. This is why we’ve created the Eastern Wisconsin Diaper Bank Initiative to supply diapers to local families in need.