Domestic violence advocates spotlight rising cases amid government shutdown

NORFOLK, Va. — The government shutdown has entered its third week, and critical federal funds are frozen. Nonprofits and domestic violence shelters across the country rely on these funds, and advocates said the shortage comes during an especially turbulent time period.

"We typically see a peak during the summer months, or the holidays, but this week, it's changed," said Kelsey Fadness, with Samarian House. "It's not just the phones that keep ringing."

Fadness said victims of domestic violence are reaching out at an accelerated rate, and it's done through multiple channels. This includes emails, social media messages, and in-person visits.

Fadness said it's most likely another impact of the government shutdown.

"It's connected. People are furloughed and they are in their home, whether t