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More victims seeking shelter at Guma Esperanza
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Posted on Jul 24 2004
From January to July this year, a total of 49 victims of domestic abuse sought shelter at the Guma Esparanza, signaling an increase in the number of victims availing of the services of the Domestic Violence Task Force.
Guma Esperanza manager Lauri Ogumoro said there has been an upturn in the number of victims seeking shelter with them, considering that a total of 60 victims were recorded for the entire year last year.
“The number of victims has increased most definitely. We have 49 this year and it’s only seven months into the year,” she said.
Ogumoro said the increase may not indicate an increase in domestic violence; instead it could be a result of more women being aware of the shelter being provided by the Domestic Violence Task Force.
The task force works with the Community Guidance Center, Department of Public Safety, and other organizations to assist victims of domestic violence.
The Guma Esparanza was established on Sept. 2001.
Ogumoro is assisted by five police officers, eight staff at the shelter, and countless social workers at the Northern Marianas College, Community Guidance Center, and the Commonwealth Health Center to ensure the safety of the victims.
“The shelter location is confidential. We offer free services and food. There is a playroom for the children,” said Ogumoro.
There are no qualifications to stay in the shelter. It is open for all victims of domestic violence, regardless if they are residents or nonresidents.
Some victims, however, prefer seeking help and shelter from their families, Ogumuro said. “Not all women come to the shelter. They have families who they feel comfortable staying with.”
A 24-hour hotline is also available for victims in need of assistance. Volunteers from different organizations are on hand to provide information about the shelter and to guide victims through counseling.
The 24-hour hotline is 234-5100. For shelter assistance call 664-4583. (Cassie Dlg Fejeran)
