Crisis Center Still Helping Victims Through Coronavirus Outbreak

TINLEY PARK, IL — The Crisis Center for South Suburbia won't stop helping victims of domestic violence during the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. Crisis Center Executive Director Pam Kostecki says the service is still there for victims although additional measures have been taken to make sure the 35-bed shelter in Tinley Park stays "virus free."

"Until quarantined restrictions change, we will be here to help," Kostecki said. "We are doing our best to stay virus-free. However, at a time like this when stress is at an all-time high, and families are cooped up together with little in the way of an outlet, we are doing our best to provide services and shelter from violence. We want victims to know we are here to help."

The shelter facility has been deep cleaned and access is currently restricted to essential staff and current residents only, she said.

What Stays The Same

• The 24-hour hotline (708-429-SAFE) is still in effect, with staff standing by at all times to answer calls.

What's Changed

• Due to the coronavirus, the shelter has reduced its capacity to one household per bedroom, with 13 total bedrooms.
• Access to common areas have been restricted to small groups.
• Pre-screening questions have been added.
• New residents are now isolated from others for 24 hours, until they are deemed symptom-free.
• Volunteer services to the agency operations have been temporarily suspended.
• The two Neat Repeats resale stores that support the shelter have been temporarily closed.

As of March 24, 16 coronavirus deaths have been reported in Illinois amid 1,535 total cases.

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