Isolation during COVID can be especially challenging and dangerous for people in abusive relationships. Nationally, calls to domestic violence hotlines have increased since the pandemic began. We hear from local agencies that calls have also increased in our area.
Sponsored by City of Greenfield Mayor’s Task Force on Domestic Violence, two new billboards in Greenfield remind us that most people would try to help if they knew someone was being abused. An accompanying flyer reinforces this message.
Hotlines can help people in abusive relationships or dealing with abusive former partners. Friends and family members concerned about a loved one are also welcome to call. The abuse does not have to be physical and partners do not have to live together or be married.
A few 24/7 hotlines:
NELCWIT 413-772-0806
National Domestic Violence Hotline (website has live online chat) 800-799-SAFE
Crisis Text Line (for any type of crisis, including abuse). Text HOME to 741741
By the CVS on Federal Street.
Near the light at the intersection of Mill and Deerfield Streets.