LACKAWANNA COUNTY, Pa. — The most wonderful time of the year can also be the most dangerous time for some families. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the month of December brings a 20% increase in calls for domestic violence around the country.
However, here in Luzerne County, officials say domestic violence calls are lower than they expected this Christmas. Marsha Pigga is the Executive Director Of The Domestic Violence Service Center in Wilkes-Barre. She says that a dip in numbers can be deceiving.
"The calls have decreased for help during the holidays; we know this domestic violence is still occurring, and actually, police reports have shown an increase of 20% after the holidays," said Pigga.
The Domestic Violence Service Center says the holiday season triggers a wide variety of risk factors for domestic violence, including stress, money, and alcohol.
"Holidays just bring their own unique stressors, the financial stressors, the family stressors. Just the hustle, bustle, and business of the holidays cause a lot of stress for many people. and it's not a happy time for people." Pigga added.
Pigga says the holiday season is also a big reason why some people do not report their abuse, wanting to keep their families together.
"Sometimes they will sacrifice themselves to keep the peace and harmony and happiness for the family during the holidays," added Pigga.
While calls are down, the number of people needing their services is not. The Domestic Violence Service Center says their shelter has been a full capacity throughout the holidays. The group still trying to make the season as magical as possible for kids within the shelter.
"It's always difficult to see someone in the shelter being a victim, a survivor of domestic violence. I know that we're providing a safe space for them. We have such a wonderful, generous giving community that has just made the holiday extra special for the residents and the children," she said.
The group is in the works of expanding the shelter services and says they will always work on finding someone safety, despite a full shelter. The center has a number of services available at any time, including the holidays. Those services include a free hotline, counseling services, and the shelter.
The Domestic Violence Service Center in Wilkes-Barre is available by phone- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 1-800-424-5600.