OKLAHOMA CITY —

An Oklahoma nonprofit serving those in need of support from domestic violence and other forms of abuse saw record-breaking numbers in 2023.

The chief operating officer of Palomar, Anden Bull, discussed why they’re seeing a rise in demand for their services.

“Right now, we can say we served over 5,700 unduplicated unique individuals,” Bull said.

The nonprofit helps Oklahomans facing violence and abuse and served more people than ever in 2023. With over 5,700 clients, Palomar’s COO said 1,600 were children and it was the highest year of clients yet, with around 300 more than the year before.

“Since opening, year to date when I pulled those numbers we are at 22,636 unique clients all time,” Bull said.

Over 22,000 people have sought out help with Palomar saying that was over 90,000 visits.

“I think what we’re seeing is that domestic violence continues to be a prominent issue in the community and as that gets more awareness just in the general public and in the community, I think more people are willing to reach out for help,” Bull said.

Palomar also said they see clients asking for more community services. Now, they said in 2024, they’re ready to serve as many Oklahomans as needed, saying their doors are open to anyone in need.

“When you see people you suspect may be going through these types of relationships, just letting them know that Palomar is here and they don’t have to know what kind of services they’re looking for. They can walk in the doors and we can help give them support for whatever that looks like for them,” Bull said.