Options
In addition to a 24-Hour Helpline, victims and survivors of abuse can now reach out to an advocate from Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Services using a brand new text feature, live web chat or through a new mobile app.
On the other side of every message an advocate will be ready to help with empathy, support, counseling and a safety plan.
Services are free and confidential and provided by highly trained advocates.
Developed by Citizen Observer, survivors can reach an advocate 24/7 by texting “HOPE” to 847411, visiting the Options website at www.help4abuse.org, or by downloading the “My Mobile Options” app on any Android or Apple devices.
"Think about this," said Mandie Hachmeister, director of client services. "You’re currently with an abusive partner and need help. You’re on a bus and you see a sign for Options 24-Hour Helpline. Calling an advocate and having an in-depth conversation about what you’re going through, within earshot of a bunch of strangers, is too uncomfortable to bear.
"Or, an abusive partner is in the next room. You’re afraid and don’t know what to do, but he or she will be able to hear you if you call a helpline. And you certainly can’t leave the house without suspicion. But messaging, whether on a phone or a computer, can be done privately. No one can hear that conversation."
My Mobile Options — part of the agency's new Mobile Advocacy Initiative designed to bring advocacy services directly into towns in their 18-county northwest Kansas service area — will ensure survivors in the most isolated, rural communities have access to services.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, hotline calls increased by over 200 percent and the agency realized victimization not only was on the rise, but victims were trapped in their homes, possibly without a means of contacting anyone.
This is true for many victims, even once the shelter at home orders are lifted. Advocates at Options saw a need and filled it by creating new avenues to reach out for help.
“For people experiencing domestic abuse in rural communities or while sheltering in place, there are very few opportunities to get away from an abuser to seek help.
"Isolation and long drives to areas that have brick-and-mortar facilities can keep people from reaching out," Hachmeister said. "Our concern about an uptick in domestic violence incidents led us to this solution for victims who can now reach out for help, even if they are fearful that their abuser may be within earshot. It is critical for victims to know they are not alone, and we are here to help.”
“Hope starts here,” said Executive Director Jennifer Hecker. “Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Services is the first domestic and sexual violence victim services program to offer a confidential 24-hour messaging platform in Kansas.”
Provided by a grant through the Office of the Attorney General, these new innovative services will increase access to quality services for victims, survivors and their families, reduce barriers to getting help during times of crisis, and expand victim's choices.
Through the new platform Options will be able to pinpoint areas of high need and respond by providing additional mobile advocacy services directly in that community.
How to get help
If you or someone you know needs help because of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking, call Options free Helpline at 1-800-794-4624; text "Hope" to 847411; visit the website at www.help4abuse.org; or download "My Mobile Options" app from the app store on apple or android devices for help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.