For 40 years, the Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) has been supporting victim/survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and human trafficking in Iowa. On March 8, they announced their plans to build a new emergency shelter in Johnson County.

Serving 8 counties, including Washington County, DVIP offers everything from safety planning, emergency sheltering, and resources necessary to support individuals as they plan for a safer future. These services are available for men, women, and children.

The new emergency shelter will double the capacity of their current facility, which was built in 1993. It will also include state-of-the-art security measures and trained staff on-site 24/7. With plans to break ground in May, DVIP aims to have the shelter completed by early fall 2024.

In Washington County, there was a 125% increase in individuals receiving services for domestic abuse from fiscal year 21-22. Director of Community Engagement for DVIP, Alta Medea, tells KCII how the public can help cut down that statistic. “The more that we talk about domestic violence, the more that those victims know that they are supported and heard, and can reach out for help. Removing that power of isolation and secrecy from the abuser helps move that.”

For additional resources, or to receive help from DVIP’s 24/7 support staff, visit dvipiowa.org or call 800-373-1043.