Intersecting Barriers:

Challenges to Economic Empowerment for Domestic Violence Survivors

Economic security and jobs with family-sustaining wages are key for enabling survivors of domestic violence to access safety and healing. But in order to achieve those things, we must understand the most pressing economic and employment needs of survivors and how can we better meet them.

Women Employed’s new research report, “Intersecting Barriers: Challenges to Economic Empowerment for Domestic Violence Survivors,” produced with support from the Michael Reese Health Trust, introduces the results of new research investigating the needs and gaps faced by survivors of domestic violence in the Chicago metropolitan area, and leverage the insights of workforce development professionals, domestic violence advocates, and survivors themselves in recommending policy and practice solutions.

For more information about this report, please contact Sharmili Majmudar, WE’s Executive Vice President of Policy and Organizational Impact by email, or call her at (312) 702-2474.

Acknowledgements:

This research and report were made possible by the generous support of the Michael Reese Health Trust.

Michael Reese

A sincere thanks to the following organizations and their staffs for their integral partnership in this research.

Apna Ghar
CAWC
KAN WIN
Life Span
OAI
Sarah's Inn

Finally, this report would not have been possible without the survivors who shared their experiences via survey and focus groups. To safeguard their privacy, they remain anonymous.

Together, we will ensure more women, families, and communities can build their economic power and thrive.

All new or increased gifts will be matched by an anonymous donor!