The only domestic violence hotline dedicated to helping Native American communities recently celebrated 9 years of service.
StrongHearts Native Helpline launched in 2017 as a collaboration between the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center and the National Domestic Violence Hotline, specifically designed to reach underserved Native families. It provided culturally centered resources for Native survivors of domestic, dating and sexual violence helpline
Since its inception, the organization has fielded more than 85,000 calls, chats and texts; and provided more than 26,000 referrals to direct domestic violence service providers, it announced in a press release on Monday.
“This anniversary is not just a reflection of where we’ve been—it’s a testament to our team, to our commitment to ensure that the thousands of survivors who have reached out receive culturally honoring support,” Lori Jump, Chief Executive Officer of StrongHearts Native Helpline, said in the release. “We are honored to have served our communities for nine years and look forward to expanding our impact.”
Last September, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced it will fund the helpline for $15 million over a five-year period. The funding is a shift in the organization’s relationship with the federal government as a grantee, versus as a subgrantee.
Four out of five American Indian and Alaska Native women experience violence in their lifetimes, with rates of domestic and sexual violence significantly higher than among non-Native women. According to the latest data, more than 56 percent of Native people have been victims of intimate partner violence.
Despite experiencing the highest rates of domestic violence of any demographic in the United States, Native people historically call traditional hotlines for assistance the least.
Crisis Intervention and Safety Planning: Immediate support during dangerous situations and assistance with developing personalized safety strategies.
Domestic Violence Education: Information and resources to help survivors understand their situations and options.
Specialized Referrals: Connections to Native-centered domestic violence and sexual violence service providers, as well as health facilities and crisis centers trained in caring for sexual assault survivors.
Legal Support: General information about jurisdiction issues and referrals to legal advocacy services, crucial given the complex jurisdictional landscape in Indian Country.
Emergency Shelter: More than 1,000 callers in 2024 were seeking shelter assistance, highlighting the acute housing crisis many survivors face.
Data from StrongHearts reveals the multifaceted nature of domestic violence. Among those seeking help, 35 percent reported emotional abuse, 23 percent reported physical abuse, and others experienced sexual, digital, and cultural abuse.
StrongHearts Native Helpline is available 24/7/365 by calling or texting 1-844-762-8483 or clicking on the chat icon at strongheartshelpline.org.
