Coalition Expresses Support for Iberia and St. Martin Parishes Upon Closure of Domestic Violence Service Provider
For Immediate Release: February 20, 2017
Baton Rouge, Louisiana – The Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (LCADV) today released a statement expressing support for the greater New Iberia community as it weathers the loss of its domestic violence service provider. Safety Net for Abused Persons (SNAP) announced late last week that they would be closing their shelter and ceasing services.
The Interim Executive Director of LCADV, Mariah Wineski, expressed dismay at the closure of SNAP, but was optimistic about the ability to meet the needs of survivors of domestic violence in Iberia and St. Martin Parishes. “We have a strong network of service providers across the state, and neighboring programs have stepped up to ensure that temporary services are provided to survivors in SNAP’s service area.” Chez Hope, headquartered in neighboring St. Mary Parish, has agreed to take all hotline calls and provide outreach services to survivors in Iberia and St. Martin Parishes. “Chez Hope has confirmed that they can offer domestic violence supportive services in the immediate term, so the community still has a safety net in place while we work to transition other services permanently.” said Wineski.
Wineski says that when a shelter closes, one of the neighboring programs will typically offer services temporarily while stakeholders work to locate a new service provider. According to the coalition, there are rigorous standards for providing domestic violence services which are governed by many state and federal laws. The coalition has offered its assistance to key leaders as they determine next steps for the greater New Iberia area.
Wineski also praised the SNAP leadership for their efforts to close the shelter in an organized and ethical manner. “Citizens in the New Iberia area deserve a quality resource for services, support and education as they address the critical issue of domestic violence. We are prepared to offer them training, support and any technical assistance necessary as they transition to a new service provider,” said Wineski.
Domestic violence survivors in Iberia and St. Martin Parishes seeking shelter, temporary restraining orders, or other supportive services should call the statewide domestic violence hotline at 1-888-411-1333. All services at LCADV member programs are free and confidential.
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About The Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence:
The Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (LCADV) is a statewide network of programs, organizations, and individuals who share the goal of ending domestic violence in Louisiana. LCADV empowers its members and communities through advocacy, education, resource development, and technical assistance. LCADV is dedicated to bringing about change in our institutions, laws, politics, attitudes, and beliefs which will allow individuals to live free of violence. For more information, visit www.lcadv.org.