Domestic violence creates homelessness surge in Idaho communities

By: Chuck Malloy

Outlets: Idaho Capital Sun

Published: January 29, 2026

Words: 626

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 5 days ago

Body Text Preview

Imagine the desperation LaRita Shepherd must have felt three years ago, sleeping in her car or along the Boise River. And she had a 7-year-old daughter who was living somewhere else.

LaRita says that as bad as those days were, they still felt safer than staying with her abuser. She tried to leave several times, but each attempt ended with him finding her again. With a shelter feeling out of reach, her only “safe haven” …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

Email Us