The first domestic violence shelter for men in Texas has opened in Dallas.
The Family Place has offered family violence services to women, men and children and saw a recent need to give men a shelter of their own.
“The Family Place believes that everyone should feel safe in their own home, regardless of gender,” said Paige Flink, CEO of The Family Place. “We have seen an increasing need for this in our community and want to provide services specifically tailored to this group.”
Last year The Family Place provided shelter for 32 men and nonresidential services to 50 men. Until now, men and their children have been housed in hotels where they were provided counseling and meals.
Flink said research shows that it is more difficult for male victims to leave their abusers due to social expectations, or feeling the legal system has minimized their claims. The Family Place has seen a steady increase in services for male domestic violence and the agency foresees the need continuing to grow.
“We hope to provide these men with the respect and resources they deserve to live empowered, positive lives,” said Flink.
The new shelter has room for 21 beds and offers private rooms for men and their children.
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