Viral TikTok video filmed at Pittsburgh hospital raises awareness of domestic violence resources – WPXI

A TikTok video filmed at a Pittsburgh hospital is going viral, raising awareness for victims of domestic violence. Uploaded a week ago, the video has been viewed more than 8 million times and shows flyers from the Women's Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh being posted in bathroom stalls.

The flyers have tear-off tabs at the bottom and were almost all gone. The center's executive director, Nicole Molinaro, told Channel 11 they were replaced every two weeks because their resources were so desperately needed.

“We are very pleased that this has spread the word that more resources are needed to combat domestic violence, but that there is hope and help.”

Molinaro sat down with Channel 11's Cara Sapida to talk about how this unexpected TikTok video is helping to raise awareness about such an important issue that isn't always talked about.

“When this TikTok video came out with our posters, we were thrilled because we are always trying to reach out to survivors of domestic violence and their loved ones so they know that free and confidential help is available,” Molinaro said.

Moliaro explained why they place the flyers in the bathroom stalls.

“Many survivors and victims of domestic violence have little time for privacy. We must seize the opportunity to reach them in these private moments.”

Nicole said the overwhelming majority of women who call her hotline need help in the form of services. Only a small percentage of victims need shelter, and yet shelters are always full or overcrowded. She says that's almost always the case across the state.

“In the state of Pennsylvania, over 800 people are turned away every day. Every day, 500 women seek emergency shelter. The need is as great as that across the country.”

For help: Call 412-687-8005 (24 hours), text 412-744-8445 (9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday), or visit WCSCanHelp.org and click “Chat for Help” (9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday). For more information about the Bright Sky app and website, visit brightskyus.org.

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