The Women’s Protective Services of Lubbock want to make sure the women of the South Plains are well aware of the services and help readily available to them should they ever find themselves in a dangerous situation.
Steven Garcia, coordinator of community education, legal and outreach services at Women’s Protective Services, says the summer and holidays tend to be the busiest times of year for them, but that they will never turn anyone away who comes to them for help.
“We’re going to provide safety, shelter, a roof over your head food, clothing, that kind of stuff. Do you need a divorce protective order, something like that, custody? We can help with that,” said Garcia.
Garcia also says the shelter provides free counseling for both mothers and the children as well as tools to help those moms who want to go back to school.
“I wish more people would utilize our services, because change doesn’t happen overnight, right?”
While divorces happen daily, no one ever anticipates they will turn violent or dangerous, but sometimes those are the types of cases Garcia sees comes through his doors.
“For women in abusive situations, it’s always important to remember that domestic violence comes down to two things: it’s power and control.”
Garcia says he’s proud of those women who decide to take the power and control into their own hands and reach out to the shelter, however for some, attempting to reach out is not only difficult, but it can be very dangerous.
“When you break away that’s a very dangerous time for you, because you’re breaking away from that hold that he has on you.”
He advises to women to reach out immediately when they can, but in the meantime to have a back-up plan and their belongings as well as their children’s packed up and ready to leave.
“That way you can eliminate a lot of the – when you’re in the fight or flight response, you can eliminate a lot of the panic for both of you and your child.”
Garcia says, however, the longer you wait to call for help, the sooner the situation may take a dangerous turn.
Getting help from Women’s Protective Services begins with just one phone call.
“We’re always going to have a place to go no matter what, and no matter what time of day it’s a 24-seven service where we can go and pick you up if you don’t have a vehicle. We’ll go in with law enforcement as a standby to make sure you know there’s no problems, there’s safe passage, and we’ll get you to safety.”
If you believe you may be in a situation in which you may need WPS to step in and help, you’re encouraged to call them immediately at 806-747-6491. You may also visit their website here.