Heat may be behind an increase of domestic violence

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Valley's only domestic violence shelter is preparing to help even more women and children.

Inside the Marjaree Mason Center shelter are signs that women and children are finding comfort away from domestic violence. And soon, it could be filled with even more victims seeking refuge.

Genelle Taylor Kumpe explained, "The Marjaree Mason Center seems to hit its peak in the summer months when it starts warming up. June, July and August are our largest intake and when we've got the most in our shelter and we're full across the board in all three of them."

Executive Director Genelle Taylor Kumpe says the increase in domestic violence can be attributed to a variety of factors including, alcohol, financial stressors and the summer can create an intense combination.

"It does start heating up and it causes additional irritability at home," said Kumpe. "People have less tolerance and less patience and that enhances anger sometimes. We also see that the kids are home."

These conditions have many victims seeking help from the Marjaree Mason Center around the clock.

"These women and children come to us with nothing," said Genelle. "They've fled the home and they're now homeless."

Because of this, Majaree Mason Center is seeking basic necessities and clothing for women and children to help accommodate the future need. Officials also want to bring awareness to domestic violence.

"Standing up and not being a bystander," said Genelle. "We can't just let that be somebody else's problem and their household problem behind their own four walls. It's the community's problem and we need to stand up for that."

You can help the Majaree Mason Center by donating new bedding, baby and toddler items, clothing and cash donations to their office in Downtown Fresno. Officials say every bit will help the victims they serve.