Economic empowerment is a concern for many families in southwestern Utah. It is especially critical to those who are survivors of domestic violence. “If I can’t take care of us financially, I will never be free to choose a relationship that is healthy,” explained J. Z., a 22 year old mother of two currently participating in the Erin Kimball Memorial Foundation’s H.O.M.E. program. The Allstate Foundation in a national alliance with the Department of Justice’s Office of Violence Against Women and the National Network to End Domestic Violence is addressing economic empowerment for survivors through curriculum and training researched and funded by Allstate. Locally that training is being funded through a $20,000 grant from the Allstate Foundation to the Erin Kimball Memorial Foundation.
J.Z. like other survivors of family violence served by the H.O.M.E. (Housing, Options, Mentoring and Empowerment) program is working to gain economic independence and it hasn’t been easy. “The women coming into our program have been forced into homelessness because of the violence they have experienced in their homes,” explained Sue Kimball, founder and Executive Director of the organization. “They arrive literally destitute, cut off from resources, and often without the education and skills to survive.” Education, job training and employment opportunities are keys to success for participants, but increasing income is not enough without an understanding of finances and wise asset management.
Richard Harris, Erin Kimball Board Trustee and Allstate agent will be assisting with the implementation of the program. “Allstate’s focus has always been to create a safer and healthier community,” commented Harris. “It feels good to invest in programs that help families succeed and provide long-term benefits for the community.”
Survivors of domestic violence who would like more information about the economic empowerment program can contact Michele@erinkimball.org, or call the Foundation’s office at 673-1659.
No comments:
Post a Comment