Austin—May 12, 2009—Services for victims of family violence and sexual assault continue in the greater Del Rio area. The Texas Council on Family Violence (TCFV), in close partnership with the National Domestic Violence Hotline, Wintergarden Women’s Shelter, Southwest Family Life Center and the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA), recognize the need to continue critical resources to Del Rio residents. Through this partnership, a network of services has been weaved together.

Victims of family violence are urged to call the National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) at 800-787-SAFE (7233) (TTY 800-787-3224). Hotline advocates are available 24 hours a day for victims and anyone calling on their behalf to provide crisis intervention, safety planning, information and referrals to nearby agencies. Assistance is available in English and Spanish with access to more than 170 languages through interpreter services. All calls are confidential.

Teenage and young adult victims of abuse may also call the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline at 866-331-9474 (TTY 866-331-2453) or visit www.loveisrespect.org. The Helpline is a safe, anonymous resource for teens and young adults who seek information via live chat or telephone.

The Wintergarden Women’s Shelter in Carrizo Springs, a 24-hour emergency shelter and sexual assault crisis center, is available for immediate refuge and crisis intervention. The toll free number is 800-363-9441.

The Southwest Family Life Center in Hondo, a 24-hour emergency shelter and sexual assault crisis center, also is available for immediate refuge and crisis intervention. The local hotline number is 830-426-5131.

Sexual assault victims may also contact the 24-hour National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) or http://online.rainn.org/. The hotline is operated by the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN), and will connect callers with a local crisis center.

Additionally, TCFV will provide local media with public service announcements on family violence, and provide information to local law enforcement agencies and other key community agencies to share with the Del Rio community.

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The Texas Council on Family Violence (TCFV), formed in 1978, is one of the largest domestic violence coalitions in the nation. TCFV promotes safe and healthy relationships by supporting service providers, facilitating strategic prevention efforts, and creating opportunities for freedom from domestic violence.

Contact: Patty Gonzales, Communications Manager
(512) 685-6366 (office), (512) 809-3729 (cell) or pgonzales@tcfv.org