During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the impact and future of the Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT), a program designed to assist survivors of domestic violence in the community. The initiative, which was initially a city program, has expanded countywide with support from the Commission on Women and Girls and local commissioners.

The DVRT program focuses on providing immediate support to survivors during emergency situations, particularly when law enforcement is involved. Officials highlighted the program's success in improving communication with survivors and facilitating their access to necessary resources. The presence of trained women in the DVRT has proven crucial in guiding survivors through the complexities of trauma recovery, especially in cases involving children or pets.

Commissioners emphasized the importance of integrating DVRT into all law enforcement agencies, urging those that have not yet adopted the program to consider funding it. The county currently funds the program, making it available at no cost to those in need. Plans were discussed to engage with police chiefs from jurisdictions not yet participating in the program to encourage their involvement.

Looking ahead, officials acknowledged ongoing efforts to identify and address gaps in service delivery. They expressed a commitment to continuously adapt and improve the program based on the evolving needs of the community. The meeting underscored the collaborative approach taken by local government and law enforcement to enhance support for domestic violence survivors, ensuring that they receive the comprehensive care they require.