10/23/2025
The number of domestic violence calls to law enforcement agencies in Spokane County is nearly double the state level.
The numbers are staggering and highlight the importance of education and prevention during October’s National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In Spokane County, one in three women and one in ten men experienced domestic violence. Statistics show a 31% increase in domestic violence calls since 2001.
It’s a troubling increase that the Airway Heights Police Department and community partner Women's Healing & Empowerment Network - WHEN hope to reverse.
Earlier this year, backers opened The Hope Center at 13326 West Sunset Highway, hoping that a one-stop shop for victims' advocacy, social programs, food, and clothing would make a difference.
"We are trying to provide follow-through," said Victims Advocate Kassie DeMarco. “What else can we provide for you and ensure we're doing the whole wrap-around services?”
West Plains Victim Services workers have tallied 57 participants since March 2025. Those clients received over 400 distinct services, such as legal or housing support, food, safe shelters, and transportation.
"We are rarely going to speak with one of our participants just once," said DeMarco. That’s because the focus is to wrap services around someone so they can change the trajectory of their lives.
West Plains Victim Services currently reports 10 people, including children, are in safe houses, and eight others are in shelters.
But DeMarco and her colleagues want you to know they can help more people turn their lives around. Here’s an email you can use to contact them: victimsservice@cawh.org, or just walk into the Hope Center to find your way to safety.
