Despite the freezing overnight temperatures predicted for Friday and Saturday night, Springfield's emergency cold weather shelter for men will not open due to concerns about COVID-19.
While health officials are encouraging the public to social distance and stay home during the coronavirus outbreaks, a local advocate said, for some, home is not necessarily a safe place to be.
The coronavirus pandemic has made many aspects of life more stressful, especially for those who have lost their jobs. Advocates for domestic violence victims say there are some households in our community that might become more dangerous due to the heightened anxiety.
The stay at home orders and lockdowns due to COVID-19 have given abusers opportunities to strengthen their control over their victims.
Stay-at-home orders meant to protect the public during the COVID-19 pandemic have had worrying implications for victims of domestic violence, whose homes are often places of danger.
