COLUMBUS, Ohio — The City of Columbus is making a $1 million investment to support domestic violence resources.
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther was joined by other local leaders to announce the investment on Tuesday. The money is being given to Lutheran Social Services (LSS) of Central Ohio, Franklin County's only domestic violence shelter.
The funding is expected to make a large impact on domestic violence survivors in the community.
"I have to save me, I do not want to die over domestic violence, no."
Those were the words Earlene told herself when she decided to seek the help of LSS Choices almost one year ago. She spoke at press conference, saying that the organization helped her greatly.
The organization works to help victims of domestic violence become survivors through services like counseling, a 24-hour crisis hotline, legal advocacy and support groups.
Funds contributed to the organization will support its operations and its newly expanded emergency shelters. Nearly 30 beds will be added to the shelter.
"It's a game changer for those women and for their families to get them the safety, security, and stability they need," Ginther said.
Last year in the city, there were six domestic violence-related homicides, and this year so far that number has tripled. The city hopes this funding will help support people in these types of situations to get the help they need.
"This requires the entire community's attention and focus and moving with a sense of urgency," Ginther said. "We know it's not just a Columbus issue, it's across the country."