Victims of domestic violence often face significant emotional and practical hurdles to seeking appropriate help. For immigrants, there may even be additional obstacles.
A local Knoxville YWCA is doing its part to offer concrete assistance and resources to victims of domestic violence. Made possible by a grant from the Trinity Health Foundation of East Tennessee, the YWCA offers housing options for victims who need immediate assistance in fleeing from an abusive environment. The YWCA also has a coordinator who provides counseling and practical advice about the next steps that a victim might take.
According to the coordinator’s description of her interactions, many abuse victims may hesitate to seek help because of the uncertainties surrounding their transition to independence. Those fears start with where to stay the first night they leave their abusive spouse or partner.