A Training Seminar for Advocates on Public Benefits for Survivors of Domestic Violence

A training seminar, “Public Benefits Advocacy for Survivors of Domestic Violence,” developed by the Sargent Shriver National Center on Poverty Law, aims to help advocates understand the many special public benefit programs available for domestic violence survivors.

While individuals stay in abusive relationships for multiple reasons, the fear of economic insecurity is a critical one. Many survivors of domestic violence are unaware that they may be eligible for public benefits, including cash assistance or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), food stamps, and Medicaid, which can help them attain economic independence and thus serve as a critical step on the road to a life free from violence. The training seminar covers topics such as

• Crisis Assistance (for people who receive TANF or are eligible to receive TANF) that makes limited cash available for, among others, victims of domestic violence and their children who have fled their homes, in order to help them pay for rent, food, replacement furniture, and clothing;
• Domestic Violence Exclusion (for eligible TANF recipients) that stops the 60-month TANF counter, extends benefits beyond the 60-month lifetime limit, and exempts recipients from some work and training activities;
• special food stamp rules for battered women and their children; and
• benefits for noncitizen victims of domestic violence.

The Shriver Center has conducted training sessions at domestic violence agencies such as Rainbow House, the Elgin Community Crisis Center , and community organizations such as Catholic Charities. Another training for domestic violence advocates is scheduled for Monday, August 22, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at the Chicago Metropolitan Battered Women’s Network at 203 N. Wabash Ave., Suite 2323 , Chicago , IL 60601 . There is no charge to participate in this training.

If your organization is interested in “Public Benefits Advocacy for Survivors of Domestic Violence,” you may schedule training, or, for more information, contact Wendy Pollack at 312.263.3830 ext. 238 or Jennifer Lee at 312.263.3830 ext. 237. If you would like to reserve a space in the August 22 training, contact Lupe Rivera at the Chicago Metropolitan Battered Women’s Network, 312.750.0730 ext.105.