El Puente details services for survivors ahead of holiday

As the holiday season brings an annual rise in domestic-violence incidents, El Puente Executive Director Johnnie Trujillo is urging the community to be aware of the organization’s full range of services—and how to access them.

El Puente is Socorro County’s primary domestic-violence service provider, operating five facilities and offering 24-hour crisis support via their crisis line. Trujillo said anyone in immediate danger can call to receive help with protective orders, coordination with law enforcement, safety planning and emergency shelter.

“We are the agency that will assist you in getting a domestic-violence order of protection,” he said. “We also help coordinate any law-enforcement services you might need.”

Shelter services include immediate placement for those fleeing violence and assistance transitioning into longer-term or more stable housing. Because many survivors are displaced and may have limited options, El Puente also helps with issues related to homelessness, often responding directly when law enforcement or hospitals identify individuals in need.

A distinctive part of El Puente’s work involves caring for animals and livestock belonging to survivors. Trujillo said the ability to house pets—and even transport and shelter large animals such as horses—is essential, since abusers often use pets as leverage in violent situations. Volunteers assist with moving and caring for animals until families are safe and relocated.

The agency also provides practical, everyday support. Through a partnership with Casa de Luz, El Puente maintains “closets” stocked with donated clothing, shoes and necessities for survivors and children. Because local laundromats can be expensive or unsafe for someone fearful of being found by an abuser, El Puente will pick up, wash and return clothing for clients. Providing clean clothing for children helps ensure they can continue attending school without interruption, Trujillo said.

El Puente’s programs extend beyond survivor support. The organization is one of 33 state-approved Domestic Violence Offender Programs, offering 52-session intervention classes in English and Spanish for both men and women, along with a separate women’s empowerment program.

Trujillo said calls for help typically increase around Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s, often related to high-conflict child exchanges. Holiday substance use also contributes to spikes in violence.

Because shelter locations are confidential, all donations must be arranged through the main phone line. Staff members coordinates drop-offs or pickups for clothing, supplies or other items.

For help, information or to donate, community members should call El Puente’s main crisis line at 575-835-0928