Devastating Impact: How Major Cuts to Domestic Violence Funding Could Lead to Tragic Outcomes

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Unseen Crisis: The Alarming Rise of Domestic Violence in Fresno County

Fresno County, known for its beautiful landscapes, is grappling with a disturbing reality: it holds the highest number of calls to law enforcement for domestic violence per capita in California. This crisis is compounded by federal cuts to domestic violence funding, creating significant barriers to addressing the urgent needs of survivors.

The Struggle of Survivors: A Personal Story

Take the case of Paris Alexander, a survivor who endured more than a decade of abuse, ranging from emotional torment to physical violence. Like many, Alexander clung to hope that their partner would change. “We stick it out,” they shared, “because we think that they’re going to come to their senses.”

In September 2020, everything changed when Alexander was brutally attacked by their partner. Fleeing for safety, they stumbled upon Sojourner House, which operates the only shelter in Rhode Island dedicated to LGBTQ victims of intimate partner violence. “Almost miraculously, there was some space,” Alexander recalls. This moment marked the beginning of their journey toward recovery.

The Role of Support Services

At the shelter, known as RISE, Alexander took “baby steps” toward independence. They obtained a library card, began therapy, and connected with a virtual LGBTQ support group. For the first time, they encountered terms like “nonbinary” and “gender-queer,” which helped them embrace their identity.

Funding Crisis: The Bigger Picture

Sojourner House is among many organizations that rely on the federal Crime Victims Fund (VOCA), established by the 1984 Victims of Crime Act. This fund provides critical resources for hotlines, shelters, and legal advocates. However, funding has drastically decreased from a peak of $6.6 billion in 2017 to only $1.39 billion in 2023. This decline is jeopardizing the very services that millions of survivors depend on.

• Impact of Federal Cuts: The reduction in funding has forced many states, including California and Rhode Island, to scramble for alternatives, resulting in temporary solutions that are not sustainable.
• Advocates’ Concerns: Over 700 prosecutors have expressed alarm, warning that without Congressional action, vital services will be cut, leaving countless victims without access to safety and justice.
• Congressional Inaction: While bills like the VOCA Fix Act were introduced, they have stagnated in the Senate, highlighting the urgent need for legislative focus on this crisis.

The Intersection of Domestic Violence and Homelessness

The situation is exacerbated by rising homelessness, particularly in California, where the homeless population is at an all-time high. The recent ruling in Grants Pass v. Johnson has further complicated matters, allowing the criminalization of homelessness and threatening the already limited resources for survivors.

Challenges and Solutions

Organizations like Marjaree Mason Center in Fresno face increasing demands. As the only 24/7 domestic violence shelter in the area, they are struggling to meet the needs of survivors. Despite receiving some city funding, they find themselves overwhelmed, often turning away those in desperate need.

“What should we do when we’re at capacity?” asks Laura Moreno from the Fresno County Department of Social Services. The lack of shelter beds is a pressing issue that needs immediate attention.

Hope on the Horizon

Despite these challenges, stories like Alexander’s offer a glimmer of hope. After securing their citizenship with the help of Sojourner House, they began to rebuild their life. Today, Alexander actively volunteers, helping others in similar situations and raising awareness about the critical need for funding and support services.

“I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the Sojourner House program,” Alexander states, emphasizing the vital role these organizations play in transforming lives.

What do you think?

• Do you believe federal funding cuts are directly impacting the rise in domestic violence?
• Should domestic violence services be prioritized over other social programs?
• How can communities better support survivors of domestic violence?
• What role do you think law enforcement should play in addressing domestic violence?
• Is the criminalization of homelessness a justified response to the crisis, or does it further harm survivors?