For Immediate Release on July 28, 2023

Senators Casey and Murkowski continue to champion investments to support domestic violence survivors.

Washington, D.C. – The National Domestic Violence Hotline (The Hotline) celebrates the Senate re-introduction of the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act of 2023 which reauthorizes the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) program. This bill reflects the evolving needs of survivors and provides for vital programs through FVPSA’s critical network of resources. It is a direct result of Senators Casey and Murkowski’s steadfast support for all survivors of domestic violence and dedication to providing essential services for their safety as well as funding for prevention programs.

This re-authorization comes at a crucial time with increasing demand for services across the US, and many survivors experiencing more frequent and severe abuse. In 2022, The Hotline received 25% more incoming calls, chats, and texts than in 2021— an average of 95,877 per month and more than ever before in our 27-year history. This year continues to look like another record-breaking year. In May, an all-time record was set for the highest monthly contact volume The Hotline has ever experienced which was 40% higher than May 2022.

FVPSA re-authorization will help ensure that critical resources are available to those who need them the most, including funding for shelters, hotlines, and other services for survivors. The bill also contains essential provisions for coalitions, training and technical assistance centers, children’s services, and prevention initiatives. FVPSA provides core funding to support more than 1,500 local, public, private, nonprofit, and faith-based organizations and programs, as well as over 250 tribes and tribal organizations in responding to the urgent needs of over 1.3 million domestic violence survivors and their children.

“For more than 25 years FVPSA has provided crucial funding that has allowed us to answer close to 7 million calls, chats, and texts for those affected by relationship abuse,” said Katie Ray-Jones, CEO of The Hotline. “The number of survivors and those who want to help them who are reaching out for support and access to resources continue to increase at a historic rate. FVPSA ensures The Hotline, and hundreds of other local organizations, have the necessary support to provide them with the resources they need.”

The Hotline is grateful for the continued efforts of these senators and their tireless commitment to ending domestic violence and creating a safer future for all those impacted by relationship abuse.

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The National Domestic Violence Hotline envisions a world where all relationships are positive, healthy, and free from violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing relationship abuse in any form, help is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides free, confidential support 24/7/365. Text START to 88788, call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or chat with us online at TheHotline.org. You are not alone.