Original Press Release posted on State of California Website
Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom today announced a series of new initiatives to support victims of domestic violence amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, including $5 million in state funding, a new partnership to secure private funding with $3 million in seed funding, an executive order to help ease the financial strain on domestic violence service providers, and new private sector partnerships to support survivors fleeing violence.
The Women’s Foundation California has committed to working with the state to raise private funds that support domestic violence organizations and, in the longer-term, strengthens organizations centering on gender in California’s economic recovery plan.
This first-of-its kind fund will bolster the immediate and direct services needed to provide relief while also advancing the kind of meaningful policy shifts that Women’s Foundation California is known for – policies that support resilience and equity across racial, economic, and gender lines. Relief and Resilience Fund has to date raised $3 million, including seed funding from Blue Shield of California Foundation, and early partnerships with Levi Strauss Foundation and Stuart Foundation.
These funds have already been directed to 130 domestic violence shelter organizations caring for survivors and their children facing increased risk of violence as a result of COVID-19 and shelter in place policies. The Women’s Foundation has a goal of raising an additional $42 million by the end of 2020. To read the full press release click here.
