Yahayra Centeno, head of the Mérida Women’s Institute, indicated that they have focused on serving victims and creating new support strategies.
“Every month, 200 calls are received from women seeking help or advice related to domestic violence issues, when before it was practically nonexistent for women to raise their voice to receive help”, said Yahayra Centeno Ceballos, head of the Municipal Women’s Institute of the Mérida City Council.
She pointed out that, in this administration, they have focused on providing support to women so that they have an ally since the commitment has been to implement effective strategies that have significantly increased access to support services for those facing situations of violence.
According to Centeno Ceballos, the response has been notable, she said that they have been receiving about 200 calls per month, when before they were practically nonexistent. This shows that the strategy is working very well, especially with the Mayor’s visits to Southern Merida neighborhoods.
She specified that within the framework of the campaign “In Mérida, you have an ally” and the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence, the City Council has expanded the scope of services in the 47 “police stations“Comisarías” of the Merida municipality.
Among the main actions is: Expanded legal advice: Women in situations of violence now have legal support until 6 pm, an extended schedule that responds to their needs.
Reinforced shelters: The capacity of shelters for women without support networks was increased, going from housing six family units to 10, ensuring comprehensive and personalized protection. Women’s Line 24/7: This service, operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, has been key to providing immediate attention. Given the high demand, they are seeking to expand staff to maintain its effectiveness.
She also mentioned that the current administration is characterized by offering comprehensive support to women. It is not limited to advising them, but rather they accompany them during legal and emotional processes, generating trust and real support. In addition, educational, cultural, and sports activities are promoted in schools and communities, to make violence visible and prevent it from early stages, such as dating.
In addition, she commented that the City Council also collaborates with companies to promote safe and violence-free work spaces, strengthening the campaign through a network of alliances.
With these initiatives, she highlighted that Mérida is positioned as a model for attention and prevention of gender violence, demonstrating that, with the right will and strategies, it is possible to build a safer and more equitable city for women.
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