Meeting the Need: The Adequacy of Missouri's Domestic Violence Shelters

Abstract

The first domestic violence shelters in Missouri opened in the 1970s. Since then, these shelters have provided a safe place for women and their children when an abusive partner threatens their security. However, in 2004, Missouri domestic violence shelters turned away 29% of women and children seeking refuge because the shelters were full. Shelters have turned victims away at about the same rate for the past five years. Additionally, in 2004, the number of domestic violence police reports in Missouri was at a five-year high. The number of adult abuse cases filed in Missouri courts was also higher in 2004 than the previous year. While these cases are on the rise, Missouri shelters continue to turn away victims of domestic violence due to lack of space. This brief examines the adequacy of domestic violence shelter space in Missouri. The examination finds that some regions consistently do not have enough shelter capacity to meet demand.