This story mentions domestic violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, visit these resources: Harbor House, Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services or the Domestic Abuse Hotline
APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV)- What can be a routine part of a doctor’s visit could now become a lifeline.
Introduced on Tuesday, the Red Signal Program gives patients a discreet way to ask for help if they are experiencing domestic violence.
“The Red Signal Program is the most immediate thing we can do now to save lives,” Kalico Forest Co-Founder Brian Randall said.
The concept is simple but effective. Patients can mark their urine sample with a red marker or sticker, silently alerting staff that they are experiencing domestic violence.
The program is currently active at Family Care of the Fox Cities. Owner Dr. Julianne Falleroni said the new silent concept benefits all those involved.
“Knowing that we have a program that allows us to ask the questions, knowing what I am going to do if they say yes, will take a lot of the hesitancy off our thoughts as clinicians and physicians,” Dr. Falleroni said.
Kaukauna updates ordinance with new standards surrounding e-bikes
After the patient marks their urine cup, they are brought to a private room where trained providers can help connect them with support services like Harbor House and Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services.
Harbor House Executive Director Tracy Plamann emphasized that the program will help victims have difficult conversations.
“A program like this is lifesaving, period. If I can’t help the victim, I can have a medical staff [member] help the victim,” Tracy Plamann said.
The concept was made possible by Kalico Forest, a northeast Wisconsin-based nonprofit dedicated to community outreach, advocacy, education and support in addressing domestic violence.
It’s personal for Randall, as he lost his sister, Kali, to domestic violence, naming the non-profit in her honor. His goal is simple—save others in similar situations.
“Even if one person’s life is saved because they trusted us to put a red mark on a cup, then my family’s loss would have meant something,” Randall said.
In Wisconsin alone, 110 people were killed due to domestic violence in 2024.
Click here to learn more about Kalico Forest and its initiative to help victims of domestic violence.
