October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and an apropos time to hit the refresh button on key resources that are available to victims of domestic violence in San Francisco.

Domestic violence rates are soaring worldwide, with one in three women having encountered physical or sexual violence primarily by an intimate partner, according to the United Nations. The pandemic has only further instigated occurrences. Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres has called this tragic situation a “shadow pandemic.”

Fortunately, help is available for victims of domestic violence in San Francisco. In 2020, the Text-to-911 service was launched in our city, a life-saving option for people encountering situations like domestic violence, where it’s too dangerous to call 9-1-1 via phone.

It’s also important to know the SFPD Special Victim's Unit is on-call 24/7 to assist victims of domestic violence. Call 415.553.9225 for help.

If a child is being harmed, community members can report or consult with protective services personnel at Family and Children’s Services’ (FCS) hotline anytime at 800.856.5553.

Click here to access a full list of available resources for domestic violence victims on the City’s website.