Domestic violence survivor shares how 911 call connected her to help in San Antonio

Fear for safety, financial worries and the thought of starting over alone are some of the reasons people stay with an abusive partner.

For one San Antonio survivor, calling 911 became the first step toward getting help and leaving for good.

Ariel, whose identity is being protected, said she stayed in an abusive relationship for four years before she finally called for help.

“Initially, I didn’t call 911 just out of fear,” Ariel said.

When she did make the call, she said San Antonio police and Metro Health responded with support that went beyond the immediate crisis.

“It’s nice to feel heard,” Ariel said. “It’s nice to feel like you’re not alone, because you’re not.”

Erica Haller-Stevenson with Metro Health said victims do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Help is available for a range of needs, including food, court orders, housing, counseling and clothing.

“Whatever types of barriers you feel like you may have, it’s OK,” Haller-Stevenson said. “We can address that.”

Through a partnership between SAPD and Metro Health, survivors can be connected to resources after an emergency call, including help finding a safe place to stay.

“We can find a safe place for someone to stay if they don’t have a family member or friend that is reliable to stay with,” Haller-Stevenson said.

For Ariel, that support made a lasting difference. “One of the great things about having those resources is that it’s not just a one-time thing, and then they send you on your way,” Ariel said. “They continue to help you.”

If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence, there is so much help for you. KSAT has a list of resources on its Domestic Violence webpage, which also explains how to identify different types of abuse.

Survivors in unincorporated Bexar County who are not in current emergencies can fill out an online form to get in touch with STAR specialists. Anyone in immediate danger should call 911.

For wrap-around services, including the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter, call Family Violence Prevention Services at (210) 733-8810.

You can also contact the Bexar County Family Justice Center, which also provides wrap-around services at (210) 631-0100.

READ MORE:

• ‘They hear things’: SAPD therapist works to heal children scarred by domestic violence