Tip #17 – Financial Literacy for Domestic Violence Survivors. Domestic Violence Awareness Month

It’s almost impossible for someone to leave an abusive relationship if they’re be jobless, skill-less and lacking the economic resources and know-how to survive and take care of their family.  Fear of losing health insurance and other benefits is another factor.  It’s also frightening for a working person whose family depends on two incomes to survive to figure out how to manage on one income, making them financially dependent on the abuser. 

By becoming financially independent, one huge block to safety has been removed.  Some resources:

• WI$E (Working In Support of Education) provides national education programs and services to youth and domestic violence victims that builds financial literacy and fosters social and business entrepreneurship.
• All State Foundation, in partnership with the National Network to End Domestic Violence, developed Moving Ahead Through Financial Management, a comprehensive financial educational toolkit focused on building and enhancing financial skills.
• National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Financial Education Project addressing economic issues through financial education.
• Financial Planning Association, Pro Bono Division, provides free financial planning services to victims of domestic violence and other underserved individuals and families striving to build assets and improve their lives.  Different chapters outreach to other populations in need to meet the specific needs of their communities.
• Jewish Women International (JWI):  Life$avings: Financial Literacy for Young Women is a series of workshops that empowers teen girls, college students and young professionals to start managing their money early in their careers.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  If you need immediate help, call National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TDD).  Crime Prevention 101