Harbor House touches thousands through outreach services

“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17:22

Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior in which one relationship partner tries to control the other through violence, intimidation or threats. This experience is, indeed, “spirit crushing” and has profound effects on the victim’s health – emotionally, physically and spiritually.

For 26 years, Harbor House at Catholic Charities of Wichita has provided advocacy services for victims of domestic violence. With only two crisis domestic violence programs in Sedgwick County, the need consistently surpasses the community’s ability to provide.

Harbor House meets those challenges by offering a wide-range of services in multiple settings:
– A crisis line (316-263-6000) is the front line, providing referral and safety planning to an estimated 8,500 callers each year.
– Harbor House provides full-time advocacy and protection order assistance to survivors at district court. – Individualized safety plans and support are provided to victims in their own neighborhoods. – Safe house services are available for those whose circumstances are potentially lethal.

We all know someone who has experienced domestic violence. It occurs at the same rate in all socio-economic groups, races and faiths. We see survivors at church, at work, throughout our daily lives. We just don’t know. There may be someone living on your block who is being abused.

The staff at Harbor House has nearly 150 years of combined experience in the domestic violence field.

You do not need to be an advocate to make a difference in someone’s life. If someone you know is experiencing a controlling relationship, it can be hard to express your concern or offer help. Call Harbor House for support, and explore the range of available services at HARBOR HOUSE.