Spike In Numbers At NWA Women's Shelter

A record number of people have been coming through the doors at the Northwest Arkansas Women's Shelter.  

"We believe that nobody should have to live in a dangerous situation and that if you are living in Northwest Arkansas and you are afraid in your own home, you should have somewhere to go," said Melanie Palmer, Executive Director of The Northwest Arkansas Women's Shelter.

"A lot of violence is happening at the end of the year. Typically it's people who are under particular financial distress from the holidays or families are visiting and that's putting extra stress on the family and also people who are just wanting a better start for the year," she said. 

This is no small spike. In November and December of 2011, the shelter helped 55 people. In those same months of 2012, the numbers increased by 57% helping 95 people, making November and December of 2012 a new record. 

The holidays aren't the only times when numbers jump. Another busy season when families seek shelter is just around the corner. 

"We do see a spike in April as we get closer to tax day. Anytime there's financial stress on families, that causes rising violence. More and more crisis calls, more people wanting a pathway out of a dangerous situation," said Palmer. 

Even with more and more people coming into the shelter, the doors are always open. Sometimes the first step in helping someone is simply lending an ear. 

If you know someone who is in a dangerous situation, there is help. The crisis hotline for the Northwest Arkansas Women's Shelter is 1-800-775-9011 of 479-246-9999.