A new program in Edmond will help survivors of domestic violence.

In Edmond, they’ve agreed to waive utility deposits for people escaping domestic violence situations. They understand it’s only part of the solution but they’re glad to do something to help.

“What we’re trying to do is remove at least one roadblock so that domestic survivors can have one opportunity to maybe get out of a bad situation,” said Bill Begley, City of Edmond Public Relations.

Edmond is making it a little easier for those experiencing domestic violence.

“It’s just a way for us to offer a helping hand to people who are trying to get out of maybe an abusive situation,” Begley said.

In a partnership with YWCA and Palomar, Edmond created a program to help survivors of domestic violence by waiving Edmond utility deposits.

“Doesn’t mean they don’t have the means. They may not have access to the means because of the situation they’re in,” Begley said.

With just a few forms of proof of their situation, domestic violence survivors can easily start their new life.

“This type of waiver is a huge benefit for survivors who are trying to make that next step,’ said Brandon Pasley of the YWCA.

The next step, the YWCA said, isn’t as easy as it seems.

“Advocacy organizations don’t have the resources to just write checks for clients. Unfortunately, we can’t provide that for those sorts of needs. And those are probably the most pressing needs,” Pasley said.

There’s not a domestic violence shelter directly in Edmond but you can find two shelters across Oklahoma below.

• YWCA Oklahoma City: 2460 NW 39th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73112

• Wings of Hope Family Crisis: 3800 N Washington St, Stillwater, OK 74075

• Palomar: Oklahoma City’s Family Justice Center: 1140 N Hudson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

“This is not an Edmond issue this is an Oklahoma issue,” Begley said.

The YWCA’s safe line is: 1-800-522-7233