When the COVID-19 pandemic began, victims of domestic violence experienced a crisis layered over another crisis. 
The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating effects on survivors of domestic violence, leaving them even more vulnerable.

On top of this crisis, agencies serving victims face more devastating cuts to Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funding in Rhode Island, which are bound to cut programs and advocate positions who respond to victims in need.
Rhode Island is the only state in the northeast that hasn't released any American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) emergency funds.

The lack of state investment in safe, affordable housing, supportive services and prevention of domestic violence puts Rhode Islanders at risk.
The time is now to invest in long-term solutions to domestic violence.

We must invest $28 million from American Rescue Plan Act funding to address the urgent needs of domestic violence victims in our state.
With these funds, we will be able to:
life-saving victim services provided by the RICADV and member agencies affected by cuts to VOCA funding with $2 million.
survivors in crisis by strengthening emergency domestic violence services with an investment of $10.2 million.
severe gaps in specialized services for the most vulnerable populations affected by domestic violence including Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) individuals, immigrants, elderly, LGBTQ+ and gender non-conforming individuals, people with disabilities and victims who are incarcerated with $3 million.
victims and their children by allocating $9 million in housing funds to rebuild, renovate and increase domestic violence shelters capacity, and to provide short-term safe and affordable housing.
the cycle of violence by dedicating $3.8 million to primary prevention strategies that will create healthy communities and increase the quality of life for Rhode Islanders.
Help us ensure survivors and their families aren't left behind.
Support survivors in your community by contacting your elected officials and urging them to invest ARPA funding in Rhode Islanders affected by domestic violence.
Need more information about your elected officials? You can find out who they are and their contact information here.

Thank you for helping us ensure we meet the emergency needs of survivors in Rhode Island.
We all know someone – whether we recognize it or not – who has experienced or been affected by domestic abuse. 

Today, we have the chance to support them.
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