The Violence Policy Center says Georgia ranks 15th in the country for killings of women by men, down from 7th place just three years ago.

But The Haven, a battered women's shelter in Valdosta, says they're above capacity.

Anonymous residents of the center say it takes courage to leave an abusive relationship.

"That's what I feel like I had to do was run and hide, and leave my belongings behind," said an anonymous resident of the Haven, who arrived there a month ago. "So I just knew i had to get out. I couldn't let him do it anymore. I couldn't hide it anymore."

"This past year we've seen a tremendous increase," said Michelle Girtman, the executive director The Have. "And we know a lot of that is due to the economy, and the loss of jobs, which causes stress on marriages."

Last year, The Haven provided 392 women and children with shelter.