Florida program aims to help domestic abuse victims

On Behalf of | Oct 13, 2017 | Domestic Violence |

A person who has left an unsafe environment with a volatile partner may find that they face a new set of problems. For some, they have suddenly lost the main source of their financial security. In fleeing the domestic abuse situation, a person can be crippled by the loss of income and stability. One Florida program aims to aid women who have left violent partners by helping them prepare for their own economic stability. 

The program, hosted by the Citrus Abuse Shelter Association, is called the Economic Justice Program. Since many women have been stay-at-home moms, or have had limited employment opportunities, when they leave their abuser, they may lose their income, health insurance, transportation and access to credit. The Economic Justice Program aims to provide steps for women to get back on track. 

The program will funnel women into GED programs and help them to find a job. Once the woman is working, the program can also help with budgeting, savings and credit guidance. The program can offer strategies to address the economic challenges of leaving the relationship and information on how to protect their safety after leaving. 

Programs such as the Florida Economic Justice program are one important part of supporting victims of domestic violence. Sometimes, it may be necessary to use legal means to protect oneself from future harm by the abuser. A person may have to dissolve a marriage if abuse becomes an issue. Some individuals choose to hire a knowledgeable family law attorney for any legal issues related to domestic abuse. 

Source: chronicleonline.com, “CASA program puts victims on path toward financial independence“, Nancy Kennedy, Oct. 11, 2017