Domestic violence survivors may stay or return to an abusive relationship for many reasons, but the number one reason is that they lack economic resources or other viable options. Our new video, the second of four we’re sharing this month, explains how abusers use finances to trap their partners, in many cases forcing them to make an impossible choice between abuse and homelessness.
It’s up to all of us to end domestic violence and its devastating effects on women and children. We can do this by educating ourselves, and by taking action.
Take action
- If you live in King County, vote for KC Prop 1, Best Starts for Kids, which will help prevent domestic violence and family homelessness. Patricia Hayden, Senior Director of Specialized and Integrated Services at YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish, shares her thoughts on the proposition:
“This week, I’ll get my ballot for the Nov. 3 election in the mail. On that ballot will be KC Prop 1, Best Starts for Kids. As someone who has worked most of my life to help women and families, I will definitely vote for this. I want to see every child reach their potential and this levy will serve some of our poorest neighborhoods.
“Best Starts for Kids offers the kind of upstream solutions that will prevent outcomes we see every day in our work at the YWCA – homelessness, domestic violence and untreated mental health concerns. And, the proposed levy is a bargain – it will cost the average King County homeowner around $1 each week. That’s not much to pay to invest in our community.
“After 10-plus years of persistent advocacy, a funding source for community health and human services is now within reach! We want to do everything we can to help it pass. Our YWCA Board has endorsed this important ballot measure and I hope you will join me in voting yes for KC Prop 1, Best Starts for Kids!”
Watch King County’s video about Best Starts for Kids:
- Wherever you live, share these videos and other resources on social media, and use the hashtag #EndDVNow. Our Oct. 8 video explains what domestic violence is and who it affects; our upcoming videos, to be released Oct. 22 and 29, will continue to explore the connections between domestic violence and homelessness.
- Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) if you’re concerned about someone’s safety, or to find domestic violence services in your area.
- Ask your state lawmakers to support paid sick and safe leave. Sending a message to your legislators takes just a few moments using this form.
- Take the Purple Purse Challenge to support a participating Washington YWCA: YWCA of Kitsap County, YWCA Clark County, YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish, YWCA Spokane, or YWCA Yakima.