When it comes to treatment and care for a variety of issues in rural America, access is one of the greatest challenges and a domestic violence advocate is highlighting the challenges for victims.
Andrea Kocher is the Director of Services at Willow Tree Missions in Piatt County and indicates it isn't unique to domestic violence victims but she hopes their victims don't get lost in the shuffle of the conversation.
When it comes to access, specifically in Piatt County, Kocher says Piatt County is unique in that Willow Tree Missions is the only on-call provider for domestic violence and Kocher is alone in her ability to help and respond to victims.
Anonymity is extremely important for victims of domestic violence and Kocher explains that the issue alone has many, many challenges.
According to Kocher, domestic violence victims more often than not need more services than those offered by an agency like Willow Tree Missions. And for victims in rural areas, access to those services, again, becomes a challenge.
Finally, Kocher indicates an individual's relationship with a local law enforcement official in a small, rural community can often come into play. She explains this can be in the form of a personal relationship or their relationship in previous encounters.
Kocher indicates those are just a few of a long list of challenges facing a victim of domestic violence in a rural community. If you want to get a hold of Willow Tree Missions to learn more about its services or find help, visit WillowTreeMissions.org or call 217-762-2350.
