October 21, 2026
As we recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we’re reminded that domestic violence is not a rare or isolated problem in Delaware. In 2024, 22,835 domestic violence incidents were reported, with 22.7% involving physical injury. In 2025, YWCA Delaware answered more than 6,500 helpline calls, connecting survivors with support during times of crisis.
Legal protections are essential to helping survivors find safety, support and justice. That’s why we’re proud to recognize five bills: HB 122, HB 213, HB 342, HB 421, and HB 355 sponsored by Sen. Nicole Poore, Rep. Griffith and Rep. Morrison, and supported by the Domestic Violence Coordinating Council, of which YWCA Delaware is a member, that were recently signed into law.
Through our community engagement and advocacy efforts, YWCA Delaware helped advance these protections, which strengthen confidentiality between survivors and victim advocates, expand access to legal protections, close gaps in firearm restrictions, and help protect survivors from retaliatory lawsuits. These new laws reflect the importance of advocacy in creating safer pathways for survivors to seek support and protection.
