LI Group Launches Spanish Hotline For Domestic Violence Victims

PATCHOGUE, NY -- As domestic violence cases continue to rise due to the coronavirus, many groups are finding ways to provide resources to victims. Last month, Gov. Andrew Cuomo initiated the statewide "PAUSE" directive, closing businesses and schools and resulting in many New Yorkers hunkering down in their homes. However for some, this means being trapped for weeks with abusers with no where to go.

On Monday, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone confirmed that there has been a 3.5 percent increase in domestic violence cases between March 16 and April 16. Similarly in Nassau County, police say there has been more calls reporting domestic violence.

In Patchogue, one group is doing there part in help victims of domestic violence as well. SEPA Mujer, the only Latina immigrant organization on Long Island, announced recently that amid the pandemic they have launched a special hotline.

While the non-profit has physically closed its office on March 16, they are still offering support to community members remotely over the phone, online and on social media.

In addition, now victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, hate crimes and more can call a direct line to receive help in Spanish at 833-762-9832.

For more information, visit SEPA Mujer's page here.