KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- As more people lose their jobs and their finances decrease, counselors say they are seeing an increase somewhere else in Kansas City -- domestic violence cases.

After years of physical and emotional abuse, one woman who agreed to speak with KCTV5 News recalled the moment she knew she had to get out. It was when she watched her 6-year-old son choke another boy on the playground.

"That was when I just kind of snapped. I just can't continue. He's going to be just like his father," she said.

A recent survey from the Kansas City Health Commission found that domestic violence cases were increasing, and experts say the economy is playing a large part in that.

Candie Daniels, director of the Rose Brooks Center, said, "Women seeking services has just skyrocketed in the last three months compared to this time last year."

The Point In Time survey showed that ten years ago, the cases were a little more than 5000, but has since doubled.

"The economy escalates it. The men become more desperate for power and control," said Rose Brooks Executive Director Susan Miller.

Counselors said their victims are also afraid that if they do leave their abusive situations, they won't find work in this economy.

Thanks to a group called SafeHome, the woman who spoke with KCTV5 News has a new home, and she received grants for college and a new life.

"I am free! And I love what I do. And I tell you, I am so grateful for Safe Home," she said.

The resources are limited and that's why the health commission presented to their study results to the City Council for additional funding.

Miller urged anyone needing help who may find a waiting list to call other shelters.

Additional resources:

Help for Domestic Violence Victims
Rose Brooks Center
E-mail: rose@rosebrooks.org
Crisis Line: 816-861-6100

SafeHome
Web: www.safehome-ks.org
Phone: 913-262-2868