In the days following a tragic murder-suicide that took the lives of five people, a local organization in Clark County has reported a disturbing increase in calls for help related to domestic violence. The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) has seen a staggering 50% rise in calls to their 24-hour domestic violence hotline since Monday.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office recently released the names of the victims involved in the apparent murder-suicide that occurred in the Orchards neighborhood just outside Vancouver. The suspect, identified as 64-year-old Stuart K. Rouse, is believed to have killed his wife, Cristina, his brother, Ronald, and his two adult daughters, Kristina and Melissa, before taking his own life.
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YWCA Clark County CEO, Brittini Lasseigne, emphasized that domestic violence knows no boundaries, affecting individuals of any gender, race, financial situation, or familial background. The organization usually receives an average of 23 calls per day, but over the past four days, that number has increased to 38.
Lasseigne explained that after such a horrific incident, some individuals reflect on their own situations or those of their loved ones, prompting them to reach out for help. They realize that it could have easily been them, and they want to find safety before something more tragic occurs.
The holiday season can exacerbate stress, and historically, the YWCA has observed a rise in domestic violence cases and calls during this time of year. Lasseigne highlighted the urgency to find a solution, as the community has already witnessed 10 homicides this year alone.
YWCA Clark County is appealing for donations during this time to support their efforts in assisting individuals who seek help. Despite the high call volume, they remain available to provide shelter, support for protection orders, and safety planning.
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The increase in calls to the YWCA’s hotline serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of domestic violence and the importance of support services in the community. It is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and be aware of the signs of domestic violence, offering help and support to those who need it.
