The Spotlight Initiative: Providing Critical Support to Women Survivors of Violence Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

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The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to families around the world. In Samoa, the traditional main income earners, husbands, were laid off due to border closures and lockdowns, leaving many families struggling to make ends meet.

The Nofotane Project: A Lifeline for Women Survivors of Violence

The Nofotane project, funded by the European Union through the Government of Samoa’s Civil Society Support Programme in partnership with SVSG, has been providing critical support services to women survivors of violence. One of its key initiatives is a digital market online that launched last year.

Increased Demand for Services During the Pandemic

Since the pandemic began, there has been a significant increase in calls to the Nofotane helpline and cases of domestic violence. Siliniu Lina Chang, President of SVSG, notes: “We have seen a significant increase in calls to our helpline and cases of domestic violence since the pandemic began… But thanks to the support from the Spotlight Initiative, we have been able to respond quickly and effectively to these situations.”

Rita’s Story: A Testimony to the Impact of the Nofotane Project

Rita*, a survivor of 13 years of physical and emotional abuse, fled her home during the lockdown period and sought refuge at Campus of Hope, a domestic violence shelter supported by SVSG. With the help of SVSG, Rita received counseling for herself and her husband, which led to positive changes in their relationship.

The Spotlight Initiative: A Beacon of Hope for Women Survivors of Violence

The Spotlight Initiative has allocated US$51,000 to support SVSG as a frontline civil society organization. Ms. Tevaga emphasizes the importance of ensuring that gender-based violence support services remain available and accessible during emergencies: “It’s essential that gender-based violence support services remain available and accessible to women, children, and at-risk groups at all times, including during a state of emergency.”

The Impact of the Spotlight Initiative

By providing an enabling environment for women survivors of violence to become breadwinners, the initiative has helped alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by families during this challenging period. Rita’s story is just one example of the many women who have benefited from the initiative’s support.

A Brighter Future for Women Survivors of Violence

As Rita says: “Don’t be afraid to take that step to seek help… You will take courage when you look into the eyes of your children.” By continuing to provide vital services and support, the Spotlight Initiative is helping create a brighter future for women survivors of violence in Samoa.