Bexar County is funding the continuation of a local Domestic Violence Navigation Line where case managers are on call 24/7 to connect victims with vital resources.

The background

While these case managers have been grant-funded by the city of San Antonio since inception, county commissioners on Oct. 10 approved funding to continue the hotline to specifically help domestic violence victims living in unincorporated areas.

The hotline is a partnership involving the county, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, the South Texas Regional Advisory Council, University Health, Family Violence Prevention Services, the city and the Collaborative Commission on Domestic Violence.

According to a news release, from the hotline’s inception in August 2021 through July 2022, case managers conducted 2,736 assessments for residents experiencing family violence.

Of these victims, 656 residents, or 24%, were determined to be at high risk of lethal harm from their intimate partner, the release stated.

Out of those who were screened as high risk, 175 individuals sought refuge at a friend or family member’s residence, 16 were hospitalized for treatment of injuries, 49 opted for hotel accommodations provided by the city, and 31 found sanctuary at the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter, according to the release.

What they’re saying

Local officials said the 24/7 hotline has been valuable in helping to provide domestic violence victims with immediate assistance and guide them toward safety.

“This navigation line provides a cutting-edge service that undoubtedly saves lives and wouldn’t be made possible if not for collaboration and communication between all domestic violence stakeholders,” Judge and CCDV Co-Chair Monique Diaz said in a statement.