Why Domestic Violence?
In March 2010, in one 24-hour period alone, more than 65,000 victims of domestic violence and their children received life-saving services from local domestic violence programs. Domestic violence experts answered more than 23,000 emergency hotline calls. In one day, 9,280 requests for services went unmet, largely due to lack of funding.
Although the economy does not cause domestic violence, factors associated with a sour economy can increase the severity and frequency of abuse. At the same time, safety options and resources for survivors can be more limited.
Domestic violence and sexual assault are prevasive and life-threatening crimes affecting millions of people across the US (and the world) regardless of age, economic status, race, religion, sexual and gender orientation, or education.
Nearly 1 in every 4 women is beaten or raped by a partner in their lifetime. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people experience roughly comparable violence in relationships, while having decreased access to services and adequate support.
Although the economic downturn does not cause domestic violence, it can exacerbate the factors that contribute to domestic violence and reduce people’s ability to leave. Domestic violence is three times more likely to occur when couples are facing high financial strain. 3 out of 4 domestic violence shelters report an increase in women seeking assistance from abuse since September 2008.
By hosting a swap you can make a real difference in supporting life-saving domestic violence services. October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so this fall is a great time to host a Swap for Good event.
To find local domestic violence shelters, organizations and resources, click here – you can type in your zipcode and find shelters in your area.
For more information visit:
The National Network to End Domestic Violence
National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
National Organization for Men Against Sexism
If you are in danger, please use a safer computer, or call 911, your local hotline, or the U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 and TTY 1-800-787-3224.