In a matter of weeks, police say two domestic violence incidents have resulted in SWAT standoffs in Fond du Lac. Now, victim resource organizations want victims to know that there is help available in the area.
Domestic violence is a rising issue not only in Fond du Lac, but across the state. There were 84 domestic violence related deaths in Wisconsin in 2016, a record high for the state.
In Fond du Lac, several groups work together to provide assistance to victims.
"We hope to just offer that safety and security," said Nicole Johnson, Executive Director of Solutions Center.
Solutions Center offers free and confidential services to victims, including counseling, assistance with legal proceedings, help for children who have been abused or witnessed abused, and emergency shelter for families, women, and men.
"It's very individualized, and hopefully we're crossing out a lot of things on the list that people are needing, just depending on their unique situation that's going to help them stay in a safe place," said Johnson.
Solutions Center works closely with Agnesian Domestic Violence Services, which offers similar services to victims. They also provide prevention education, talking to students about healthy relationships to hopefully reduce domestic violence cases in the future.
When helping victims, Agnesian Domestic Violence Services also provides counseling and support.
"We really want to assure them that we're not going to be there to dictate their decision," said Tiffany Wiese Parker with Agnesian Domestic Violence Services. "We're going to be there to help validate them. support them, and advocate for them throughout whatever process they choose to take."
Agnesian Domestic Violence Services has seen a 35% increase in patients seeking services over the last three years, according to Wiese Parker.
"We have more people getting help," she said.
If you're a victim in need of help, visit Agnesian Domestic Violence Services or Solutions Center for more information.
