Both mothers and children who are victims of domestic violence are struggling to find permanent homes. There is a long-term waiting list on Housing Section 8. Victims are temporarily staying in shelters or on the street, because frequently shelters are full and they turn families away.
I was one of those victims. I had two young children with me when we escaped from our abuser. We stayed with a friend for a while because the women’s shelter was full. I applied for all the housing options in Salt Lake City but the minimum wait was three years long. I had no choice but to go back to my abuser.
Often in abusive relationships, victims do not have financial independence. Due to financial instability, victims are afraid to leave and become homeless. They have trouble finding rental properties because of poor credit or their income is too low. Domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness for women and children. The Utah Department of Health report shows 11.9% of victims miss work and activities because they are going through struggles to find shelter for them and their children.
A possible solution would be to provide separate federal funding or grants for domestic violence victims and their children. This funding could provide for urgent and permanent housing needs. Additionally, it is an effective way to boost economic independence and provide a safe living arrangement for victims. This would ensure that they would not have to return to their abuser.
Thank you for bringing your attention to and helping with domestic violence victims and their families.
Michele Le, Taylorsville
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