When money is at the root of domestic violence, financial literacy can be a lifesaver

Abstract

When we think of domestic violence, disturbing images of physical and psychological attacks come to mind. We know that this kind of violence goes on in our community every day, but it tends to be more comfortable to believe it only happens to people very different from ourselves.

The fact is, more than a third of the women in this country – and more than a quarter of all men – have experienced rape, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner.  In Philadelphia and its surrounding communities, the numbers are just as alarming.

Domestic violence is becoming an all-too-common occurrence. It may be happening right now, in our own neighborhood, and maybe, even within our own families

It is a surprising fact therefore, that the city of Philadelphia has but one shelter for women affected by domestic violence. That shelter operates at near 100% capacity every day of the year. (Domestic violence knows no “special season.”) However, the amazing staff of an inspiring organization called Women Against Abuse (WAA) makes operations at the shelter possible day in and day out.

These people include skilled and educated counselors, who work with women who have sought the anonymous safety of the shelter. It is a hard fact that one of the most common ways women are victimized by their abusive partners is through economic coercion. Far too many victims believe they must stay in destructive relationships because they simply can’t afford to be on their own. Using the threat of withholding money, damaging credit or losing a home, many abusers can hold crippling financial sway over their partners.

It is this knowledge that enlightened the financial counselors of Clarifi, the region’s foremost nonprofit financial-literacy agency. Recognizing an unmet need, Clarifi leadership came to forge a partnership with their counterparts at WAA. With funding that began in April 2011, the partners began exploring each other’s capabilities, as well as what needs could be addressed on behalf of the survivors of domestic abuse.

“Clarifi was better prepared to resource our clients once they gained a thorough understanding of the particular obstacles for survivors of domestic violence,” said WAA Executive Director, Jeannine Lisitski.

“And, our case managers are now better prepared to assist our clients in managing their personal finances on an ongoing basis, thanks to the staff training from Clarifi.”