As new cases of Covid-19 slow and restrictions begin to loosen, the end of shelter in place may soon be in sight. Just as we are poised to “return to normal,” we are realizing this pandemic has brought about many new insights and perceptions. The way we think about what our lives revolve around — education, employment, transportation, health, hunger and shopping has been altered significantly. It has become apparent that everyone’s circumstances in relation to food security, access to education, stable employment, shelter and safety varies greatly. While some families were  figuring out how to home-school and work from home, others may have been planning for their safety while sheltering in place.

When pandemic plans began to focus around stay at home orders in late February, one of the most frequently voiced concerns was about domestic violence. I reached out to Programs Manager Angela Marandola at the Katie Brown Educational Program to learn more about how to address relationship violence. Since 2001, the Katie Brown Educational Program has been working to promote respectful relationships. Offering programs for youth and adults, including students, parents and teachers, KBEP teaches about relationship violence prevention.  

Founded to remember and honor Katherine “Katie” Brown of Barrington, RI. She was killed by the man she was dating. She was 20. KBEP is located in Fall River and works with all communities in Southeastern Massachusetts  and some areas of Rhode Island. When schools were closed, programming was adjusted and made available online using platforms such as Instagram and Youtube. The Katie Brown Educational Program does not offer support services such as shelter and will continue their educational programming throughout the summer. 

To learn more about the Katie Brown Educational Program visit https://kbep.org/

About The Author

Christina is a life long Rhode Islander who has been dedicated to mission-driven human services work. A mother of two, she recycles, composts, and runs her household with solar energy. An animal lover and a world traveler, this bon vivant has jumped out of a plane, bungee jumped (twice!), run over the Newport Bridge, swum across Narragansett Bay, and penguin plunged.