We still need your help to support survivors and advocates during this crisis. Having trouble viewing this email? View it in your web browser
Dear Supporter,
We are happy to announce that Congress passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act on Wednesday. Thank you for responding when we put out the call – your voices made a difference. This is the first step to ensuring safety for survivors during this time of uncertainty. However, we still need your help.
Congress is now working on another emergency bill to address the pandemic. Call or email your Members of Congress today to ensure that the next bill addresses the specific needs of survivors and the programs that serve them.
Survivors and programs need:
Flexible emergency funding for local domestic violence programs to remain open and ready to serve;
Direct economic support and protections for survivors; and
Access to healthcare and additional legal protections.
These provisions are crucial to ensuring programs are equipped to help and survivors have access to resources as we face uncertain times ahead. COVID-19 will reduce options to seek safety for domestic violence survivors because there are fewer services and interventions available. Shelters may not have space available, courts might not be processing all cases, and doctors might not have time to make referrals. With closures in the service industry sector and other employment challenges, victims may lose their jobs or be unable to find work.
Act now and tell your Members of Congress to include these provisions in the final stimulus package. Survivors and advocates need Congress to respond immediately to their concerns.
