Victims of domestic violence getting more help in Fort Hall

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Story Published: Nov 17, 2009 at 4:50 PM MST

Story Updated: Nov 17, 2009 at 6:43 PM MST

By Wes Horrocks

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FORT HALL - The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are getting $500,000 to benefit victims of domestic violence.

First thing on the list is to start a new shelter.

Right now, there isn't a place in Fort Hall for victims to get away from domestic violence.

By the end of the year the tribes are hoping that will be different. Marcia Hall, Victims Of Crime Assistance Court Advocate said, "It'll relieve a lot of pressure."

The Tribal Health Office receives calls, walk-ins, and referrals about people living in violent situations constantly.

From January to July the Police Department responded to eight sexual assaults and 86 domestic violence calls.

Having a place for victims to stay is crucial. Hall said, "We go out and assess the situation. Ensure that the client is out of imminent danger. And we place them in a safe environment for the night."

Right now, that means sending people to Pocatello or Blackfoot, but a new shelter will allow people to stay local.

The Department of Justice grant will even pay for someone to always be at the shelter. Angela Mendez, Director of Tribal Health and Human Services for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes said, "So that they can provide assistance, or make sure that the shelter is running the way it should."

The grant will also help pay for one judge to specifically work with domestic violence cases. Mendez said, "It's good to have somebody from the outside come in and be able to objectively visit with our women, and be able to hear their story."

Furniture and supplies for the shelter are expected to be purchased soon.

Administrators hope their work shows they are serious about addressing domestic violence. "It's really been positive. We've really seen a lot more people using our resources," said Mendez.

A new shelter is needed in Fort Hall, because the previous facility was closed after being flooded.

In order to protect the privacy of those using the shelter we have not shown any video of the new location.

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