Aid to domestic violence shelters and walk-in programs when unforeseen accidents, such as fire or flood, occur. Every nine seconds a woman is beaten by her partner or spouse and nearly half of all women will be beaten at least once in their lives by the very people with whom they have chosen to spend their lives. The majority of battered individuals have children who are hurt, both physically and mentally, by the violence in their home. Domestic violence happens to everyone, regardless of race, culture, age, ability, educational, or income levels. It also is the most common, yet least reported, crime in the United States.
Domestic violence affects all members of a family, as well as the community in which they live.
Many victims are able to break the emotional and economic bonds that hold them to their abuser. But they need help, which is provided by the many domestic violence programs located throughout the state of Illinois and elsewhere. The ability to establish financial independence from an abuser is a crucial step for many victims who are becoming survivors. Sometimes the only thing preventing escape from their abuse is the money needed for a security deposit on an apartment or a deposit for utility hook-ups. The goal of the Foundation is to provide money so these clients may establish economic independence.