Family Feud More Than Just a Game Show in Yakima It’s Serious

Domestic violence is a big problem in the city of Yakima and all around the state and nation. It's one of the most dangerous calls police respond to no matter where they work.
Two Officers and a Firefighter were killed in a domestic incident in Minnesota on Sunday. The killings impact Officers all around the country and in Yakima.

HOW BAD IS THE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROBLEM IN YAKIMA?

How bad is the domestic violence problem in Yakima?
Executive Director of the YWCA women's shelter says Yakima and Spokane have the highest rates of domestic violence incidents in the state. Cheri Kilty says they help thousands of women and children every year. Many gain valuable help and resources at the shelter. In fact she says 85% leave the shelter and rebuild their lives in the community.

A SPECIAL TEAM HAS BEEN CREATED IN THE YAKIMA POLICE DEPARTMENT

Kilty says they work closely with the Yakima Police Department through the department's Domestic Violence Coordinated Community Response Team.
The team was developed to create a more complete response involving law enforcement, mental health and survivor advocates and other partners.

THE TEAM IS CONSTANTLY MEETING LOOKING FOR WAYS TO HELP VICTIMS

The response team meets daily to talk about new cases, response plans and provide services and safety to domestic violence survivors or victims and their children. Many of the women and children find safety and security at the YWCA shelter.
Kilty is thankful that every year many in the community help the shelter with donations and operating dollars. You can drop off your donations at the YWCA at 818 West Yakima Avenue or you can call the shelter at 509-248-7796.
You can also find information on the web at https://www.ywcayakima.org/
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