Nobody should ever have to fear for their lives within the walls of their own home, but for victims of domestic violence, this is a terrifying reality. Domestic abuse is one of the most serious and heartbreaking issues facing citizens of the United States today, affecting over 10 million men and women across the country every year. The abuse rarely stops, and in many cases, it can have deadly consequences. The statistics on this are chilling: in almost 16% of all homicides, the perpetrator is an intimate partner of the victim.

Escaping an abusive situation is far more difficult than simply leaving—especially if the victim shares a home with their abusive partner. Abusers often isolate their victims from their friends and family, leaving them without a network of support. Seeking help with homeless housing authorities also proves challenging, as victims of domestic violence are not extended the same priority preferences as other marginalized demographics such as the elderly and disabled community. To ensure that domestic violence survivors have access to stable, long-term housing in New York State, I’m sponsoring a bill which would require state housing authorities to include survivors of domestic violence as a preferred population along with the other groups to whom they extend this priority (A.9735).

Another problem survivors of domestic violence face is the high cost of housing. Over 80,000 families in New York State are on the brink of homelessness. Even with public assistance provided by housing authorities, two-thirds of families live in housing with rent that exceeds their shelter allowances. To give more victims the help they need to break free from a dangerous situation, I’m co-sponsoring a bill that would create a new statewide rent supplement for families on public assistance who are facing homelessness due to domestic violence or hazardous living conditions (A.1620).

One of the ways that we can fight domestic abuse is by standing with and providing help for survivors. I’m proud to support the 26^th Annual White Ribbon Campaign for Vera House Inc. During the month of March, Central New Yorkers will be wearing white ribbons or wristbands as a show of solidarity with survivors of domestic violence. The White Ribbon Campaign fosters male leadership and encourages men to take a stand in ending violence against women. Vera House, located in Syracuse, works to end domestic violence and other forms of abuse in our communities. It provides shelter, counseling and other supportive services for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. If you or someone you know needs help or assistance, please call Vera House at 315-425-0818 or visit their website at verahouse.org.

The effects of domestic violence are serious and devastating. In order to combat this epidemic, we must stand with, support and believe survivors. I will continue working to assist victims of domestic violence in taking back their lives and starting anew.

As always, my office is here to help. If you have questions about domestic violence or any other community issue, please feel free to contact me by calling 315-452-1115 or emailing StirpeA@nyassembly.gov.