HOUSTON – Each month, the KPRC2 community along with our partners at Energy Transfer come together to spotlight those who make a big impact in our community.

This month, we are focused on the Houston Area Women’s Center or HAWC.

The center helps thousands of women and families each year get out of dangerous and abusive situations.

Since the start of the pandemic, the center has seen a 30% increase in calls, with many women and families in crisis situations. HAWC has helped thousands of those families get out of abusive homes, and they continue to do so, one phone call at a time.

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It’s part of a crucial safety plan that can help operators intervene as quickly as possible.

“Being able to safety plan is so critical because it is that moment when they decide to leave the relationship… it’s the most dangerous time,” said Celinda Guerra, director of Hotline and Crisis Intervention Services.

Last year, the center answered nearly 54,000 phone calls and safely housed more than 1,200 women, children and families.

Guerra said those in need of help or family members and friends of those in need of help can call anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for anything.

“We really want to emphasize for survivors that they’re not alone, that this is not their fault and help is available. They can call without having to share a name and just get the information they need and learn the options they have available to them,” said Guerra.

HAWC offers counseling services, legal aid and shelter. If you are someone you know is in need of help due to a domestic or sexual violence situation, you can call the Houston Area Women’s Center 24/7 hotline at 713-528-2121.